Serie A MotM award for Udinese star dreaming of Super Eagles debut at age 30

Kingsley Ehizibue enjoyed one of the finest nights of his career on Saturday as the Udinese defender was named Man of the Match after his side’s 2-0 win over Torino in the Serie A, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 30-year-old right-back played a key role at the Bluenergy Stadium, scoring the opening goal deep into first-half stoppage time to set Udinese on their way to an important victory. His finish came after he reacted quickly at the far post to turn in a well-delivered cross from teammate Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, sparking loud celebrations among the home supporters.

Ehizibue’s overall performance was just as impressive as his goal. He completed 87% of his passes, won three duels, and delivered a tireless display before being substituted in the 69th minute. His efforts earned him a match rating of 8.1, the highest on the pitch. And it has now been confirmed that Ehizibue is the winner of the official Man of the Match award.

It is Ehizibue’s second goal in as many games, following his strike in the thrilling 3-3 draw against Lazio just days earlier.

Importantly, this was not his first Man of the Match recognition. Back in September 2024, he was named MVP in a narrow 1-0 win over Como after providing the decisive assist. In February 2026, he also picked up the award despite Udinese losing 1-0 to Bologna, with observers praising his fighting spirit.

The victory over Torino carried added meaning for Udinese. It lifted them back into 10th place with 47 points, ended a three-match winless run at home, and kept alive hopes of their first top-half finish since the 2012-13 campaign.

Ehizibue: Super Eagles dream still alive for Udinese star

Ehizibue is enjoying another excellent season with Udinese, built on consistency, discipline, and quiet improvement. The defender has now made 30 league appearances in the 2025-26 campaign, helping Udinese keep seven clean sheets while maintaining a pass accuracy of around 79%.

Due to injuries in the squad, including the long-term absence of Alessandro Zanoli, Ehizibue has stepped up as the team’s first-choice right-back. Under coach Kosta Runjaic, he has become a reliable figure, trusted for his tactical awareness and high work rate rather than flashy moments.

Speaking after the win, Runjaic praised his development and the growth of the team. He said he was pleased to see players like Ehizibue, Kamara, and Ekkelenkamp improving as the season draws to a close, while also noting the warm reception from fans who appreciated the defender’s efforts.

“We are at the end of the season and we are seeing the development of players like Ehizibue, Kamara, Ekkelenkamp, and many others. We are satisfied with this,” Udinese coach Kosta Runjaic told the club’s official website.

“Ehizibue was rightly celebrated today by the fans, who recognized his performances and his work to improve. It was a wonderful moment.”

Now, attention is turning to the international stage. Despite receiving a call-up in March 2020, Ehizibue is yet to make his debut for the Nigeria national football team. A mix of administrative challenges, COVID-19 disruptions, and injuries delayed his long-awaited appearance.

Born in Germany and raised in the Netherlands, Ehizibue previously faced passport complications linked to dual nationality rules. When he was first invited by then coach Gernot Rohr, the pandemic forced the postponement of matches against Sierra Leone, and the opportunity slipped away.

Further setbacks followed in 2023, when a serious injury ruled him out for several months just as he was regaining attention from national selectors.

However, the situation has now changed. At 30, Ehizibue remains eligible to represent Nigeria, as he has only played for the Netherlands at youth level and never in a competitive senior match. Recent reports suggest that his administrative issues have been resolved, and he is ready for selection.

With his current form, capped by a Man of the Match display in Serie A, the Udinese star could finally be set to make his long-awaited Super Eagles debut.