Former Nigerian international Dimeji Lawal has praised Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye for his impressive display in Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to Portugal in Wednesday’s international friendly, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Udinese shot-stopper produced several outstanding saves at the Estádio Dr Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria, helping to keep the Super Eagles in the contest against a star-studded Portuguese side.
Portugal took the lead in the 23rd minute when Pedro Neto finished expertly into the bottom-right corner after connecting with a cutback from Diogo Dalot.
The hosts nearly doubled their advantage shortly afterwards, but Okoye came to Nigeria’s rescue with a brilliant save, tipping Bruno Fernandes’ powerful volley over the crossbar.
Nigeria fought back and restored parity eight minutes before half-time through Akor Adams, who showed composure and quality to beat his marker before slotting the ball into the far corner.
However, Francisco Conceição struck in the 75th minute to hand Portugal victory after the Super Eagles had battled their way back into the game.
Speaking after the encounter, Lawal singled out Okoye for special praise, insisting the goalkeeper was one of Nigeria’s standout performers on the night.
“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.”
Okoye’s display will come as a major boost for head coach Eric Chelle as the Super Eagles continue preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers following a productive international window.