Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is set to make his return to competitive football this month, with Serie A side Udinese confirming he will be available for selection after serving a two-month suspension for illegal betting.
Okoye was sanctioned by Italian football authorities in July following investigations into betting-related offences. Although initial fears suggested the 24-year-old could face a four-year ban for sporting fraud, the disciplinary panel ruled in favour of a lesser charge of illegal betting, reducing his punishment to a two-month suspension.
The ban officially ends on October 19, making the Nigerian shot-stopper eligible to feature in Udinese’s Serie A clash against Cremonese on October 20.
His return could also open the door for a Super Eagles comeback, with Nigeria scheduled to play international friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia in November during the FIFA international window.
Okoye, who has 18 caps for Nigeria, joined Udinese from English Championship side Watford in 2023. A former Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper, he remains one of Nigeria’s brightest prospects between the posts.
