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Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye Banned for Two Months Over Illegal Betting in Italy
Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has been handed a two-month suspension by Italian football authorities after being found guilty of illegal betting.
According to Football Italia, the Nigerian international, currently playing for Serie A side Udinese was initially at risk of a four-year ban for sporting fraud. However, the disciplinary commission downgraded the charge, sparing him a lengthier punishment.
The case stems from a March 11, 2024, Serie A match between Udinese and Lazio, where Okoye was booked for time-wasting in the 64th minute with his team leading 2–1. The yellow card triggered suspicions after an unusual spike in bets, mainly from the Udine area—predicted he would receive a booking. The bets, placed at odds of 8/1, reportedly yielded over €120,000 in winnings.
Following an investigation involving Okoye and three others, the matter was brought before Italy’s disciplinary panel in June 2025. While a potential sporting fraud charge loomed, the final ruling focused solely on illegal b+tting.
Okoye’s suspension begins on August 18, 2025, and he is expected to miss six Serie A matches, including Udinese’s Coppa Italia tie against Carrarese. He will be eligible to return on October 19.
The 24-year-old has made 18 appearances for Nigeria and joined Udinese from Watford in 2023.