Udinese and Nigeria international goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, is facing the possibility of a four-year ban following allegations of sporting fraud.
Italian authorities have referred the 25-year-old to the disciplinary commission, not just for irregular betting, but specifically for sporting fraud—a much more serious offense. The accusation centers around a yellow card Okoye received in the 64th minute of Udinese’s Serie A match against Lazio on March 11, 2024, at the Dacia Arena.
Okoye was booked for time-wasting late in the game, with Udinese leading 2-1 at the time. However, investigators allege that the booking was intentional and part of a broader betting-related scheme. He is under investigation alongside three of his acquaintances.
If found guilty, Okoye could face a ban of up to four years. The Nigerian shot-stopper joined Udinese from English side Watford in the summer of 2023.
