Serie A: Super Eagles Goalkeeper, Okoye Under Investigation For Alleged Betting

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, is being investigated in Italy following his involvement in an alleged betting scandal.

It is understood that the Udine Prosecutor’s Office has launched a probe into Okoye for allegedly betting on his own yellow card during a game against Lazio on March 11, 2024.

The incident in happened during the 64th minute of the game when Okoye received a yellow card for time-wasting during a goal kick.

READ ALSO: Conflict In Sudan Dangerously Affecting Civilians – UN

His action has now been scrutinised as investigators suspect it may have been part of a premeditated scheme.

Posecutors are claiming that he deliberately sought to receive a booking to profit from a bet placed on that specific outcome.

Also, Diego Giordano, a 40-year-old owner of the popular Biffi pizzeria, has also been implicated in the case.

The restaurant is known to be a frequent spot for Udinese players and staff.

The suspicious activity was initially flagged by Sisal, one of Italy’s leading betting companies, through an algorithm designed to detect unusual betting patterns.

Preliminary findings indicated that there may have been a verbal agreement made at the restaurant, which was later formalized at a Sisal betting point in the city just days before the Lazio-Udinese match.

Okoye, who had been enjoying a successful season with Udinese since joining the club on a four-year deal is currently out with a wrist injury.