Nigerian international goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is under investigation for alleged sporting fraud and could be facing a suspension of up to four years if found guilty.
The 24-year-old Udinese shot-stopper is accused of intentionally receiving a yellow card during a Serie A fixture against Lazio on 11 March 2024.
Okoye was booked in the 64th minute for time-wasting while Udinese were leading 2-1—a moment now under intense scrutiny following a reported surge in betting activity tied to that specific event.
According to Corriere dello Sport, authorities became suspicious after bookmakers reported unusually high betting volumes placed on Okoye to be shown a yellow card during the match, with odds set at 8/1.
The bets allegedly generated over €120,000 in winnings, prompting an immediate alert to Italy’s sporting and anti-corruption bodies.
A report from Football Italia further reveals that Okoye is being investigated alongside three acquaintances, one of whom is said to be the owner of a pizzeria in Udine.
The case is currently being reviewed by the Italian Football Federation’s (FIGC) disciplinary commission.
Media reports suggest the investigation goes beyond irregular betting activity and could fall under the more serious category of “sporting fraud.” If confirmed, the repercussions for Okoye could be severe.
Italian law allows for bans of up to four years in cases involving manipulation of sporting events, particularly when tied to gambling.
The goalkeeper, who joined Udinese from Watford in 2023, has been a regular feature for the Serie A side this season and is considered one of Nigeria’s key players ahead of their upcoming international campaigns.
His future, however, now hangs in the balance as disciplinary proceedings unfold.
Neither Okoye nor his legal representatives have made any public statements regarding the accusations.
Udinese have also remained silent, with no official comment issued by the club as of yet.
The disciplinary commission’s findings will be closely watched both in Italy and internationally, with the outcome potentially setting a precedent in the ongoing global battle against betting-related match manipulation.
