'He could have saved it' - Udinese coach reacts to Okoye's free-kick blunder against Lecce

Udinese coach Kosta Runjaic has expressed confidence in Maduka Okoye's ability to improve despite acknowledging the Nigerian goalkeeper’s mistake in their 3-2 victory over Lecce at the Bluenergy Stadium.

Addressing the media before Udinese's upcoming clash with Juventus, Runjaic admitted that the 24-year-old knows he could have done better in dealing with Medon Berisha’s curling free kick, which flew into the top corner in the 58th minute to reduce Udinese’s lead.

"He knows he could have prevented the free kick. He could have managed to save that shot, Berisha kicked very hard and we should have swept the ball first without giving them that foul Runjaic said, as quoted by Tutto Udinese.  

"In the past we have paid dearly for this type of mistake because we have complicated our lives unnecessarily. 

Against Juve last year Solet tried a dribble, losing the ball and we conceded a goal. We have to improve on this aspect."

Despite his criticism, the German tactician called for patience as Okoye continues to settle into the team. 

"We mustn’t forget that against Juve, Maduka will be playing his third game and for us it will be his ninth. 

"There’s a big difference, but he’ll gradually get into his rhythm," he added.

Udinese had raced into a 2-0 halftime lead through Jesper Karlstrom and Keinan Davis, but Lecce fought back as Berisha’s free kick and a late strike from Konan N'Dri made it a tense finish. 

Okoye also misjudged a corner during the game, though his defenders managed to clear the danger before Adam Buksa restored the two-goal cushion.

Runjaic concluded by reaffirming his belief in Okoye, insisting that consistent playing time will help the Super Eagles goalkeeper regain his confidence and form.

Wale Adejumo

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