Nigeria’s international goalkeeper and Udinese shot-stopper, Maduka Okoye, has been handed a two-month suspension by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) over betting-related misconduct linked to a Serie A match against Lazio during the 2023/2024 season.
The case drew national attention after a flurry of unusual bets was placed on Okoye receiving a yellow card during the March 11 fixture at Udinese’s home ground.
Bookmakers flagged the activity, prompting an official investigation by football authorities and local prosecutors.
The goalkeeper was eventually booked in the 64th minute for time-wasting, aligning precisely with the suspicious betting patterns. Reports later surfaced alleging that Okoye may have been in contact with three individuals, including a restaurant owner in Udine who placed successful bets on the booking, allegedly raking in significant winnings.
While the initial speculation suggested he could face up to four years on the sidelines if found guilty of sporting fraud, the final judgment proved less severe. The FIGC cleared Okoye of any deliberate match manipulation, citing lack of evidence for intent to influence the outcome of the game.
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Instead, Okoye was found guilty of breaching Article 4 of the FIGC Sporting Justice Code, which covers general violations of sportsmanship and conduct unbecoming of a professional athlete.
He was consequently issued a two-month ban, effective from August 18, the date Udinese kick off their Coppa Italia campaign against Carrarese.
This means Okoye will miss six competitive matches for Udinese, including the first month of the new Serie A season. He is expected to be available for selection again from October 18.
In response to the ruling, Udinese publicly reaffirmed their support for Okoye, emphasizing their satisfaction that the more serious allegations of match-fixing were dismissed.
