Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has once again found himself in the spotlight, but this time for troubling reasons.
The Udinese shot-stopper, currently sidelined with a wrist injury, is embroiled in a betting scandal that has shaken Italian football.
Reports from Italy reveal that authorities in Udine are investigating the goalkeeper for allegedly betting on his own yellow card during a Serie A clash against Lazio on March 11, 2024.
During the match, the referee booked Okoye in the 64th minute for time-wasting while taking a goal kick.
Although such cautions are common in football, investigators suspect this one may have been part of a calculated scheme.
Timewasting caution raises doubts over Okoye
The scandal has brought immense scrutiny to Okoye’s career and personal life.
Prosecutors accuse the Nigerian international of fraud, alleging he intentionally sought the booking to benefit from a prearranged bet.
Adding to the drama, Diego Giordano, the owner of the popular Biffi Pizzeria in Udine, is also implicated.
Known for hosting Udinese players, the pizzeria may have been where the alleged verbal agreement occurred before being formalized at a betting point operated by Sisal, one of Italy’s top betting companies.
Sisal’s algorithm flagged suspicious betting patterns tied to the Lazio match, sparking the investigation.
Okoye’s off-field troubles will do little to help his case.
He recently made headlines for a messy breakup with his fiancée and allegations of locking his girlfriend and two-year-old child out of their home.
These issues add to the storm surrounding the goalkeeper, whose performances had been a bright spot for Udinese.
Before his injury, the former Watford goalkeeper had made 25 crucial saves this season from 14 Serie A games, including a league-high 16 from shots inside the penalty area.
