Nigerian international and Udinese goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye. Has been slapped with a two-month ban by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). Over a betting-related incident during the 2023/2024 Serie A season. The 24-year-old shot-stopper was found guilty of sporting misconduct. An investigation revealed he intentionally earned a yellow card in a match against Lazio to influence betting outcomes.
The suspicious booking raised red flags among betting monitors. And triggered a detailed probe into irregular wagering patterns linked to the game. Following weeks of inquiry, the FIGC’s National Federal Tribunal officially confirmed its decision. Disqualifying Okoye from all official matches for two months starting from the 2025/2026 season.
According to the disciplinary ruling, “The National Federal Tribunal, Disciplinary Section, definitively ruling, imposes on Mr Emil Maduka Okoye the sanction of two (2) months of disqualification in official matches, starting from the beginning of the first official competition of the 2025/2026 sporting season.”
As a result, Okoye will miss six competitive matches including Udinese’s Coppa Italia opener against Carrarese on August 18 and the first five Serie A games. He is expected to return to action on October 19, when Udinese face newly promoted Cremonese away.
This development has sent shockwaves through both Italy and Nigeria, given Okoye’s prominent role in the Super Eagles setup. The ban not only affects Udinese’s squad depth early in the season but also casts uncertainty over Okoye’s national team future.
With football authorities cracking down on betting misconduct. The case highlights the urgent need for tighter regulations and awareness among professional players. Fans across both nations now await Okoye’s return while debating the broader implications of the scandal.
