Maduka Okoye Under Investigation for Alleged Betting Violation, Faces Potential Four-Year Ban

Posted : 28 June 2025

Nigerian international and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is at the center of a growing investigation into alleged sporting fraud, following reports of suspicious betting activity during a Serie A match earlier this year. If found guilty, the 25-year-old could face a suspension of up to four years.

The investigation, led by the Udine Public Prosecutor’s Office, stems from a yellow card Okoye received for time-wasting during a league match against Lazio in March 2024. Betting company Sisal flagged unusual patterns related to that specific event, prompting authorities to begin inquiries.

According to Italian media reports, investigators suspect that a verbal agreement may have been made between Okoye and a local pizzeria owner, Diego Giordano, to influence the outcome of a betting slip placed on the match. Searches have been conducted at Okoye’s residence, Giordano’s home, and a betting outlet, with phones and documents seized as part of the probe.

Udinese have since removed Okoye from their active squad list for the 2024/25 Serie A season. The club has signed Norwegian goalkeeper Egil Selvik as a temporary replacement. Okoye is also recovering from recent wrist surgery and has yet to feature this season.

Despite the mounting speculation, Okoye has denied all allegations through his legal team. His lawyer, Maurizio Conti, stated there is no concrete evidence linking the player to any wrongdoing and described the yellow card as a routine in-game action.

FIFA and UEFA regulations strictly prohibit players from engaging in any form of betting related to football. If the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) finds Okoye guilty, he could be handed a ban ranging from several months to four years.

The case remains under investigation, with no formal charges filed yet. Okoye’s involvement in Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures, including potential 2026 World Cup qualifiers, may now be in jeopardy depending on the outcome of the proceedings.

Maduka Okoye Under Investigation for Alleged Betting Violation, Faces Potential Four-Year Ban

Nigerian international and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is at the center of a growing investigation into alleged sporting fraud, following reports of suspicious betting activity during a Serie A match earlier this year. If found guilty, the 25-year-old could face a suspension of up to four years.

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