Runjaic calls early dismissal a “great gift” to opponents but disappointed with team’s reaction to going down to 10 men.

Kosta Runjaic

Runjaic Stands by Okoye Amid Heavy Loss

Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic has refused to heap blame on Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye following the team’s 5-1 thrashing by Fiorentina in Serie A on Sunday, December 21, 2025.

Okoye was sent off in the 8th minute with a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Moise Kean outside the box, denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. Referee Maurizio Mariani made the call without VAR review.

The early dismissal proved decisive, as Udinese collapsed, conceding three before halftime and two more after.

Despite the error, Runjaic defended his keeper:

“We played well in the first five minutes and Fiorentina were struggling, but then we gave them a great gift with the red card. Mistakes happen and we lost a player, but even with ten men you can still put in a good performance and win.”

He expressed disappointment in the team’s response: “I’m disappointed with our reaction. We conceded too much and went into half-time 3–0 down… It’s a shame for our fans, but we’ll try to come back stronger against Lazio.”

Okoye quickly apologized on Snapchat: “I’m sorry, Bianconeri.”

The 25-year-old faces a likely three-match ban, missing the final game of 2025 vs Lazio (Dec 27) and potentially early January fixtures against Como and Torino.

The incident adds to recent scrutiny on Okoye, amid reports he opted out of Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 squad over limited playing time behind Stanley Nwabali.

A tough moment for the Super Eagles shot-stopper, but backed by his coach as Udinese look to bounce back.