Ekkelenkamp Strike Lifts Udinese Past Roma in Friuli

Udinese 1-0 AS Roma
Bluenergy Stadium, Monday 2 February 2026

Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s second-half strike proved the difference as Udinese claimed a vital three points against AS Roma at the Bluenergy Stadium, moving the Friulani within touching distance of European contention.

The Dutch midfielder’s 49th-minute goal was enough to separate two sides heading in opposite directions, with Udinese’s fifth win in six matches continuing their impressive recent form whilst dealing a blow to Roma’s Champions League aspirations.

The contest was a tetchy affair from the outset, with referee Juan Luca Sacchi brandishing ten yellow cards throughout the evening. Roma’s Evan Ndicka was the first to enter the book after just seven minutes, setting the tone for a fractious encounter that saw both sides struggle to find their rhythm in a goalless first half.

Udinese emerged from the interval with renewed purpose, and their persistence paid dividends four minutes after the restart. Ekkelenkamp found space in the penalty area to fire home what would prove to be the winner, capping off a move that epitomised the hosts’ direct approach.

Roma, sitting fifth with 43 points and boasting a superior 1.87 points per game average, dominated possession but lacked the clinical edge to trouble a resolute Udinese defence. The Giallorossi’s recent run of three consecutive victories came to an abrupt end as they failed to break down their organised hosts.

For Udinese, currently ninth on 32 points, this result represents another step towards their ambitious European targets. Their 1.39 points per game ratio may pale in comparison to Roma’s, but this performance demonstrated the tactical discipline that has underpinned their recent resurgence.

The defeat leaves Roma four places ahead of their opponents, though the gap has narrowed considerably. With both sides making extensive use of their benches in the final quarter, fatigue appeared to favour the home side’s game plan.

ScoresFooty’s prediction algorithm had anticipated a 1-1 draw, but Udinese’s defensive solidity and Ekkelenkamp’s moment of quality ensured all three points remained in Friuli.