The Udine Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation into Nigerian and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye regarding suspicious betting patterns surrounding a yellow card he received during a Serie A match against Lazio in March 2024. The investigation stems from an unusual surge in bets placed on Okoye receiving a booking during the game, flagged by betting agency Sisal’s algorithms. These algorithms detected an abnormally high volume of wagers specifically predicting Okoye’s caution, raising concerns about potential match manipulation. The 25-year-old goalkeeper was indeed booked for time-wasting in the 64th minute of Udinese’s 2-1 victory, triggering the official investigation. The inquiry has also implicated a 40-year-old pizzeria owner in Udine, Diego Giordano, who is alleged to have been involved in the betting scheme.
The investigation centers around the alleged orchestration of a bet on Okoye receiving a yellow card. Investigators believe a verbal agreement between Okoye and Giordano was reached at Giordano’s Biffi pizzeria in Udine days prior to the match against Lazio. This agreement, according to the investigators, was subsequently put into action at a Sisal betting outlet, where the bets were placed. Following Sisal’s report of the suspicious betting activity, the Udine Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated the investigation, leading to searches of both Okoye’s residence and Giordano’s property. The authorities are seeking evidence to support the allegations of pre-meditated betting and potential match-fixing.
Okoye’s legal representatives have vehemently denied the allegations, characterizing them as baseless and lacking substantial evidence. They maintain their client’s innocence and are cooperating with the investigation to clear his name. The investigation poses a significant threat to Okoye’s career, as a conviction could result in a ban ranging from seven months to four years under Article 24 of the Italian Code of Sports Justice. This article strictly prohibits professional footballers from engaging in any form of gambling related to official matches organized by FIGC, UEFA, and FIFA. The potential penalties underscore the seriousness with which Italian football authorities view gambling-related offenses.
The investigation comes at a difficult time for Okoye, who is currently recovering from wrist surgery and sidelined from competitive football. Udinese, anticipating Okoye’s extended absence, have signed Norwegian goalkeeper Egil Selvik as cover, further complicating Okoye’s prospects of reclaiming his starting position upon recovery. Okoye joined Udinese in 2023 after a disappointing spell at Watford, seeking a fresh start and an opportunity to revitalize his career. He quickly established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, making 37 appearances across all competitions before his injury.
The outcome of the investigation will have a significant impact on Okoye’s future in professional football. A lengthy ban could effectively derail his career, while exoneration would allow him to focus on his recovery and regaining his place in the Udinese squad. The case highlights the growing concern surrounding match-fixing and gambling in football, and the stringent measures taken by governing bodies to protect the integrity of the sport. The investigation’s findings will serve as a crucial precedent for future cases involving similar allegations.
The coming weeks will be decisive for Okoye as the Udine Public Prosecutor’s Office aims to conclude its investigation. The potential repercussions for the Nigerian goalkeeper are substantial, ranging from a career-threatening ban to complete exoneration. The case has attracted significant attention within the football world, serving as a reminder of the ongoing battle against match-fixing and the importance of upholding the integrity of the sport. The public awaits the investigation’s conclusion and the subsequent decision regarding Okoye’s fate.
