The verdict on Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye’s betting case at the Italian National Federal Court has finally arrived.
The 25-year-old has been under investigation for months in relation to his alleged participation in illegal gambling activity related to a match between Udinese and Lazio on March 11, 2024.
It was thought that Okoye was in danger of a suspension for as much as four years as a result, an outcome that could have ruled him out of not only next summer’s World Cup, but two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments.
How long will Maduka Okoye be banned?
In the verdict announced on Tuesday, it has been decided that Maduka Okoye will be suspended for the first two months of the Serie A season.
The statement read, “The National Federal Court, Disciplinary Section, definitively pronouncing, imposes on Mr. Emil Maduka Okoye the sanction of 2 (two) months of disqualification in official matches, starting from the start of the first official competition of the 2025/2026 season.”
Importantly, this ban will only apply to “official matches”, which should mean the former Watford man is permitted to train and participate in friendly matches. Also, while the wording is ambiguous, it also suggests the Nigeria international should be able to participate in the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualifiers in September.
The decision nevertheless comes as a blow to Udinese, who will be keen to mitigate the damage to their chances of Serie A survival.
