Nigerian Goalkeeper Denies Match-Fixing Allegations

Amas Obasogie has vehemently denied any involvement in match-fixing accusations made against him by his Tanzanian club, Singida Black Stars.

This denial comes shortly after the club's disciplinary committee announced a temporary suspension of three months, pending ongoing investigations into the matter.

Obasogie made a significant mistake from a free kick during a Tanzanian League encounter that led to Black Stars forfeiting points in a 1-1 draw against Namungo FC.

Moreover, he had an unfortunate performance in the CAF Confederations Cup playoff against Burundi’s Flambeau du Centre, which resulted in him being benched for the return leg.

In a public statement, the former captain of Bendel Insurance expressed that his errors on the field should not be misinterpreted as attempts at match manipulation.

“I want to make it clear that I have never participated in match fixing and never will,” he stated.

The mistakes during the CAF Confederation Cup clash and the NBC Premier League match against Namungo FC were due to genuine football errors, not acts of deliberate wrong-doing.

“I take full responsibility for my performance; however, these mistakes on the pitch should not be confused with match manipulation,” Obasogie continued.

Having been with the club for a year, he affirmed his commitment to clearing his name against these allegations, indicating that he is determined to continue contributing positively to the team.

“As a national team goalkeeper who represents Nigeria, I am acutely aware of the grave ramifications of match fixing. My integrity, reputation, and career are invaluable to me. I will not tarnish the name of football, my club, or my country,” he added.

Obasogie also expressed his readiness to appear before any relevant committee to defend his actions and restore his reputation. “I am fully committed and dedicated to Singida Black Stars SC. This club holds significant value to me, and I deeply respect its management, coaching staff, teammates, supporters, sponsors, and everyone involved. My focus remains on making a positive impact on the team and striving to help the club in achieving its goals in both the league and continental tournaments.”

In recent months, Obasogie has become the second Nigerian goalkeeper to face allegations of match-fixing; earlier, Maduka Okoye received a two-month suspension from Udinese due to a betting controversy.