Super Eagles of Nigeria goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has received a final verdict following illegal betting and fraud investigation.
Super Eagles of Nigeria goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has received a final verdict of two-month suspension for involvement in illegal betting activities, following an investigation by Italian football authorities.
As reported by Football Italia on Tuesday, the Nigerian international who currently plays for Serie A club Udinese avoided a potentially career-threatening four-year ban for sporting fraud.
The incident that sparked the investigation occurred during a Serie A clash between Udinese and Lazio on March 11, 2024. Okoye received a yellow card for time-wasting in the 64th minute while his team was leading 2-1.
Authorities later uncovered a surge in betting activity specifically predicting that the goalkeeper would be booked, with the majority of the wagers placed in the Udine area.
These bets, placed at 8/1 odds, reportedly generated over €120,000 in winnings. Okoye, along with three associates, was placed under scrutiny, and the matter was brought before the disciplinary commission in June 2025.
Although prosecutors initially considered charging the 25-year-old with sporting fraud (an offense that could have led to a four-year suspension) the panel ultimately imposed a reduced punishment, citing his involvement in illegal betting rather than deliberate match manipulation.
The suspension will commence on August 18, 2025, the date Udinese is scheduled to play Carrarese in the Coppa Italia.
Okoye will miss six Serie A fixtures and will be eligible to return on October 19. 2025.
