Maduka Okoye under investigation for illegal betting, risks four-year ban

The Udine Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye over allegations of illegal betting practices.

If found guilty, the Nigerian international could face a minimum four-year ban from all competitions.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, betting agency Sisal flagged unusual gambling patterns involving bets placed on Okoye receiving a yellow card during Udinese’s Serie A away match against Lazio in March 2024.

The goalkeeper was indeed booked for time-wasting in the 64th minute, which has now become the focal point of the investigation.

The inquiry has also extended to Diego Giordano, a 40-year-old pizzeria owner in Udine. The Gazzetta reports that Giordano is suspected of playing a key role in orchestrating the alleged betting scheme.

It is alleged that a verbal agreement was made at his establishment and later executed at a Sisal betting outlet in Udine, just days before the Lazio-Udinese match.

In response to the allegations, Okoye’s legal team has firmly denied any wrongdoing.

“The accusations are baseless and lack substantial evidence,” they stated, emphasising their confidence in clearing the goalkeeper’s name.

Currently sidelined following wrist surgery, Okoye’s absence has prompted Udinese to sign Norwegian goalkeeper Egil Selvik as a precautionary replacement.

The investigation remains ongoing, with both Okoye and Giordano potentially facing serious consequences if the allegations are proven.