Udinese Manager Blames Okoye, Bertola For Loss To Torino

Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic has attributed his side’s narrow 2-1 defeat to Torino to a costly communication breakdown between Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and teammate Nicolò Bertola during Sunday’s Serie A clash.

The Nigerian international found himself at the center of the game’s decisive moment at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino when a mix-up occurred inside the penalty area.

Read Also:2028 Olympics Qualifier: Kanu Eyes Another Victory Against Comoros

As Okoye rushed out to claim a ball, he collided with Bertola, leaving the goal completely unguarded. Torino substitute Sandro Kulenović capitalized instantly, tapping home in the 67th minute to secure all three points for the hosts.

Speaking to Tutto Udinese after the match, Runjaic admitted that the defensive error completely altered the outcome of an otherwise tightly contested encounter.

“Without that error between Bertola and Okoye, the match would probably have ended in a draw,” the German tactician stated.

Read Also:2028 Olympics Qualifier: Eguavoen Wants Double Over Comoros

Addressing the team’s ongoing struggles, Runjaic noted that the incident was part of a troubling pattern over recent weeks rather than an isolated mistake.

“In the last two matches, we have had blackouts caused by a lack of awareness of danger, a lack of aggression and an absence of communication,” Runjaic explained, emphasizing that the squad must quickly address these lapses to reverse their current slide.

Austin Akhilomen is a passionate sports content writer with a strong interest in football. He is a fan of the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Chelsea, and he enjoys following the teams, players, and competitions that make the sport exciting. Austin writes sports news, match reports, and football content to keep readers informed about the latest developments in the sporting world. His passion for sports also drives his aim to promote the game and connect football fans across the globe. Through his work with Complete Sports, Austin shares engaging sports content with readers and brings his love for football into every story he writes.