•Goalkeeper Obasogie
Amas Obasogie has fiercely rejected allegations of match-fixing by his Tanzania club Singida Black Stars.
The goalkeeper’s rebuttal comes hours after the Black Stars announced a three-month suspension by the disciplinary committee, while investigations continue into the allegations, reports Weekend Trust.
Obasogie made a last-minute error from a free kick during a Tanzanian League match that saw Black Stars drop two points for a 1-1 draw with Namungo FC.
The goalkeeper also had an howler in their 1-1 CAF Confederations Cup playoff match with Burundi’s Flambeau du Centre, and was dropped for the second leg.
In a statement made public, the former Bendel Insurance captain has however stated that his errors during matches are not intended for match manipulation.
“I state clearly and unequivocally that I have never engaged in match fixing and will never do so.”
The goals conceded in the CAF Confederation Cup match against Flambeau du Centre and the NBC Premier League fixture against Namungo FC were the result of footballing errors, not deliberate misconduct.
“I accept full responsibility for my performance; however, mistakes on the field must not be mistaken for match manipulation.
Obasogie, who has been with the club for a year, declared his willingness to clear himself of the allegations, and also assured of his continuous commitment to the club despite the match-fixing brouhaha.
“As a national team goalkeeper representing the great nation of Nigeria, I fully understand the severe consequences of match fixing. My integrity, reputation, and career are invaluable to me. I have sworn never to bring the game of football, my club, or my country into disrepute.”
“I am ready and willing to appear before any disciplinary committee to defend myself and clear my name. I remain fully committed and dedicated to Singida Black Stars SC.
“This club means a great deal to me, and I hold deep respect for its leadership, technical crew, my teammates, supporters, sponsors, and every stakeholder associated with it. My focus remains on contributing positively to the team, maintaining our momentum, and working tirelessly to help the club achieve its ambitions of winning trophies both in the league and in continental competitions.”
Obasogie is the second Nigerian goalkeeper to face match-fixing allegations in recent months.
Maduka Okoye also served a two-month suspension at Udinese for a betting scandal.
