Super Eagles Goalkeeper Amas Obasogie Handed Two-Month Ban Over Match-Fixing Claims
In a significant development for Nigerian football, Super Eagles goalkeeper Amas Obasogie has been suspended for two months by his club, Singida Black Stars, following allegations of match-fixing. The ban comes just a month after Nigeria's third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where Obasogie was part of the 28-man squad but did not play, with Stanley Nwabali and Francis Uzoho preferred as goalkeepers.
Details of the Suspension and Club Statement
Singida Black Stars, a Tanzanian Premier League side, announced the disciplinary action against Obasogie and teammate Khalid Aucho, citing allegations of match-fixing, misconduct, and absenteeism. According to reports from Nile Post, the club conducted an investigation into the players' behavior before issuing the suspension. In a statement, the club emphasized the importance of discipline and accountability, reminding all players and staff to uphold these values. Obasogie, who joined Singida Black Stars from Fasil Kenema in Ethiopia, had played 11 matches for the club prior to the ban.
Background and International Career
Amas Obasogie, a 26-year-old goalkeeper from Edo State, made his international debut for Nigeria in a friendly match against Egypt on December 16, coming on as a substitute. Despite his inclusion in the AFCON squad, he remained on the bench throughout the tournament. His suspension adds to a series of high-profile incidents involving Nigerian goalkeepers, raising concerns about the sport's integrity in the country.
Reactions from Nigerian Football Community
Nigerian sports journalist Godwin Wambebe expressed disappointment over the allegations, warning that such incidents could damage the reputation of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and Nigerian football as a whole. Wambebe, a former Media Officer for Kogi United, noted that this is the third case in less than a year involving a Nigerian goalkeeper linked to match-fixing or betting scandals. He highlighted the potential impact on Obasogie's future opportunities with the Super Eagles and urged for measures to protect the sport's image.
Previous Incidents and Broader Context
This suspension follows other notable cases, including Maduka Okoye, a Super Eagles goalkeeper who received a two-month ban from Italian authorities for illegal betting in 2024. Additionally, Plateau United goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka was suspended from the NPFL over insider betting allegations, with investigations ongoing. These incidents underscore growing concerns about betting and match-fixing in Nigerian football, prompting calls for stricter regulations and oversight to maintain the sport's credibility and fairness.
