Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is being investigated in Italy over allegations of involvement in a betting scandal during Udinese’s Serie A match against Lazio on March 11, 2024.
The probe, led by the Udine prosecutor’s office, was triggered by an unusual betting pattern flagged by the betting company Snai. Reports from Italian newspaper Messaggero Veneto indicate an abnormally high number of bets were placed on Okoye receiving a yellow card during the match.
In that game, Okoye was booked for time-wasting in the 64th minute—just 19 minutes into the second half—raising suspicions about the timing and circumstances. Udinese went on to win the match 2-1.
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The investigation has also implicated Diego Giordano, a 40-year-old pizzeria owner in Udine, who reportedly has close connections with Udinese players and staff. Prosecutors are examining the relationship between Okoye and Giordano to determine if any agreements were made to influence betting outcomes.
Both Okoye and Giordano were informed of the investigation in December 2024. Authorities are exploring their communications, including mobile phone data, and have conducted searches to uncover potential evidence, such as betting slips or financial records.
If found guilty, Okoye could face severe sanctions, ranging from a seven-month suspension to a four-year ban, depending on the outcome of the investigation. The case remains ongoing as investigators seek to clarify the full scope of the alleged scandal.