Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is currently under investigation in Italy over an alleged betting scandal related to a game played by his team, Udinese, last season.
The investigation is being led by the Udine prosecutor’s office after an unusual pattern of betting activity was flagged by Snai, a betting company.
According to reports by Messagero Veneto, an Italian newspaper, an unusually high number of bets were placed on Okoye to receive a booking during Udinese’s match against Lazio on March 11, 2024.
In that match, Okoye was cautioned for time-wasting in the 64th minute, a booking that raised suspicions due to the unusual timing, especially considering it occurred just 19 minutes into the second half. Udinese won the match 2-1.
The investigation has also implicated Diego Giordano, a 40-year-old pizzeria owner in Udine, who is said to have regular interactions with Udinese players and staff. Prosecutors are investigating the possible connection between Okoye and Giordano, with the focus on whether any agreements were made to influence the betting outcomes.
Both Okoye and Giordano were made aware of the ongoing probe in December 2024. They are facing charges of fraud, and investigators are attempting to verify the details of their communications, including mobile phone chats, to uncover any potential agreements. Authorities have conducted searches in areas associated with the suspects, looking for gambling receipts or other relevant evidence.
If Okoye is found guilty, he could face sanctions ranging from seven months to four years, depending on the severity of the charges. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to establish the full extent of the alleged betting scandal.
