Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is reportedly under investigation in Italy over allegations that he deliberately received a yellow card during a Serie A match for betting purposes. The Udinese goalkeeper is being probed by the Udine Prosecutor’s Office following an incident involving Lazio in March 2024.
According to Messaggero Veneto, via Football Italia, Softfootball reports that investigators are examining Okoye’s booking in the 64th minute of Udinese’s match against Lazio on March 11, 2024. The Nigerian was shown a yellow card for time-wasting during a goal kick, but prosecutors suspect the booking may have been deliberately sought as part of a betting scheme.
Investigators reportedly believe a verbal agreement may have been reached at Biffi pizzeria, a popular restaurant frequented by Udinese players and staff, before the alleged arrangement was later formalised at a Sisal betting outlet in the city.
The suspicious betting activity was reportedly flagged by Sisal after its algorithm detected unusual patterns. Diego Giordano, the 40-year-old owner of the pizzeria, has also been implicated in the investigation.
Okoye, who joined Udinese on a four-year contract, is currently sidelined with a wrist injury. Before his injury, the goalkeeper had enjoyed an impressive campaign, making 25 saves, including 16 from shots inside the penalty area.
