Nigerian international and Udinese goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, has been handed a two-month suspension in Italy for illegal betting activities.

There were earlier fears that the 25-year-old could face a much harsher punishment—up to four years—if found guilty of sporting fraud. However, Italian football authorities opted for a lesser charge, convicting him only for illegal betting.

The case stems from Udinese’s Serie A match against Lazio on March 11, 2024, where Okoye was booked for time-wasting in the 64th minute. It was alleged that the yellow card may have been intentional as part of a betting scheme.

As a result of the ban, Okoye will miss one Coppa Italia game and seven Serie A fixtures. He is expected to return to action on October 19.

The suspension is a major blow for both Udinese and the Super Eagles as Okoye has been in solid form recently. The incident also adds to growing concerns about betting-related offenses in European football.

Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Okoye bounces back once his ban is over.