Friendly: Okoye Shines Despite Eagles' Loss to Portugal –Lawal

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Former Nigerian international Dimeji Lawal praised Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye for his strong showing in the 2-1 defeat to Portugal in Wednesday’s international friendly.

The Udinese keeper made several crucial saves, although he conceded two goals to a star‑filled Portuguese side at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.

Portugal opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Diogo Dalot’s cutback from the byline was finished by Pedro Neto into the bottom‑right corner.

Read Also: Friendly: Ronaldo, Fernandes Feature As Portugal Edge Out Impressive Super Eagles

Portugal almost doubled their advantage shortly after, but Okoye produced a stunning stop at the near post, tipping Bruno Fernandes’ powerful volley over the woodwork.

However, Akor Adams equalised eight minutes before half‑time, showing composure to beat the defender before slotting the ball into the far corner.

Francisco Conceição’s goal in the 75th minute proved the winner after Nigeria had levelled late in the first half.

Lawal Heaps Praise On Okoye

After the match, Lawal said Okoye gave a good account of himself against Portugal.

“Okoye had an excellent performance against Portugal,” Lawal told Completesports.com.

“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.”