Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has been cleared by an Italian court after a betting-related fraud case against him was officially dismissed, ending months of speculation surrounding the Udinese shot stopper.
The News Chronicle reports that the Super Eagles player had been under investigation in Italy earlier in the season over claims related to betting fraud. The circumstances affected his availability, causing him to miss numerous league games for Udinese before returning to play in October.
According to Italian media, the case concluded after a pre-trial hearing in Udine, where the betting firm Snaitech withdrew its accusation. Reportedly accepting the withdrawal, Judge Paolo Lauteri found no case against the Nigerian international, thereby ending the dispute.
For both Okoye and Udinese, the growth is anticipated to be a huge comfort, particularly given the goalkeeper’s stellar play since rejoining the team. The 26-year-old had a great season, keeping 10 clean sheets in 28 league games and helping Udinese stay in Serie A.
With many supporters greeting the news following months of concern about the gifted goalkeeper, Okoye’s clearance also raises his Super Eagles level in advance of forthcoming international matches.
