Zaniolo hails Okoye after penalty save helps end Udinese losing run

Udinese forward Nicolo Zaniolo praised Maduka Okoye after the goalkeeper’s penalty save secured a 0-0 draw with Parma and ended the club’s six-match losing streak in Serie A.

Okoye denied Adrian Bernabe from the spot in the 69th minute at the Stadio Ennio Tardini on Wednesday, producing the decisive moment in a hard-fought match and ensuring Udinese left with a point.

The result was also the Nigeria international’s first clean sheet in the Italian top flight this season. The 26-year-old had conceded 18 goals in nine matches before facing Parma and had not kept a clean sheet in any of his previous eight appearances.

Zaniolo said Okoye’s contribution had once again underlined his importance to the team.

“It’s not the first time Maduka has saved us. I love him; he’s a good person and a fantastic goalkeeper. Today, thanks to him, we broke our losing streak and got a point away from home that moves us up the table. Now we have to focus on Roma,” Zaniolo told Udinese’s official website.

The forward also admitted Udinese had endured a difficult beginning to the campaign, identifying injuries and individual errors as key reasons for their poor run.

Despite those problems, Zaniolo believes the team can improve as more players become available and regain full fitness.

“We’ve gotten off to a poor start to the season, partly due to injuries and partly due to a few too many mistakes, but we have a long road ahead, and with a full squad, we can have a great season,” he added.

Zaniolo also discussed his relationship with Italy head coach Roberto Mancini, saying he remained in regular contact with the manager who helped establish his career.

The forward said his immediate priority was to regain his sharpness after returning to action, while continuing to work towards earning another opportunity with Italy.

“I’m always in touch with coach Mancini; he launched me, and I owe everything to him. I’m happy to be back on the pitch, now I have to find my best form,” he said.