Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is reportedly set to face a four-year ban from international football.
The Udinese shot-stopper was accused of deliberately receiving a yellow card in the 64th minute of Udinese’s Serie A clash with Lazio on March 11, 2024.
Football Italia confirmed that Serie A authorities suspected suspicious betting activity around Okoye receiving a yellow card, which at 8/1 odds allegedly generated over €120,000 in winning bets. Okoye was placed under investigation along with three friends. He could be facing a lengthy ban as he has been accused of sporting fraud rather than just irregular betting.
Sporting fraud, in this context, refers to the deliberate act of manipulating an in-game event, such as receiving a yellow card, to influence betting outcomes for financial gain. Unlike irregular betting, sporting fraud is not open to negotiated settlements, and conviction carries a mandatory punishment. The case has been formally referred to Italy’s disciplinary commission, meaning formal proceedings are imminent.
The 25-year-old, who joined Udinese from Watford in 2023, has been criticized by Nigerian supporters in recent years for his poor performances whenever he is between the sticks for the Super Eagles.
Source: African Publicity
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