Former Nigerian international Dimeji Lawal has praised Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye’s impressive performance in Nigeria’s 2-1 loss to Portugal in Wednesday’s international friendly game.
The Udinese goalkeeper made some vital saves despite conceding two goals against a star-studded Portuguese side at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.
Portugal deservedly went ahead in the 23rd minute as Diogo Dalot’s cutback from the byline was converted into the bottom-right corner by Pedro Neto’s fine left-footed finish.
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It was almost two for Portugal soon after, but Maduka Okoye made a stunning stop at the near post, tipping Bruno Fernandes’ stinging volley over the woodwork.
However, Akor Adams levelled the scoreline eight minutes from half-time, showing great poise to beat the defender before finding the far corner.
Francisco Conceição’s goal in the 75th minute proved to be the winner after Nigeria had equalized late in the first half.
Lawal Heaps Praise On Okoye
Reacting after the game, Lawal stated that Okoye gave a good account of himself against Portugal
“Okoye had an excellent performance against Portugal,” Lawal told Completesports.com.
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“I was really impressed with some of the brilliant saves he made to prevent the scoreline from going beyond 2-1.
“He was calm and calculative with his movement. This performance is better than the game against Poland.
“Besides, the two goals he conceded were never his fault and could have beaten any goalkeeper as well.”
