Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who plays for Udinese, has been suspended for two months by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) due to his involvement in a betting controversy tied to a Serie A match against Lazio in the 2023/2024 season, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 24-year-old was found guilty of breaching sporting regulations after being accused of intentionally receiving a yellow card during the game—a move that raised suspicions and sparked an investigation into irregular betting activity surrounding the incident.

In a statement issued by the FIGC, officials alleged that Okoye deliberately committed an action to ensure he was cautioned, with the intent of affecting betting results.

The case has intensified scrutiny over player behavior and highlighted the increasing threat posed by illegal betting operations in professional football.

After completing a detailed disciplinary review, the FIGC’s National Federal Tribunal announced its verdict on Tuesday, confirming that Okoye will be barred from participating in any official matches for two months.

His suspension is scheduled to begin with the first competitive fixture of the 2025/2026 season.

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