Another Brazilian footballer investigated for match-fixing

Juventude player Ênio accused of allegedly manipulating games in favour of sports betting.

The Public Prosecutor’s Office of Rio Grande do Sul has launched an investigation into Juventude footballer Ênio over suspicions of deliberate match-fixing to benefit sports betting schemes.

Brazil’s Special Action Group for the Fight Against Organized Crime carried out search operations targeting the player’s home and his personal locker at Juventude’s stadium in Caxias do Sul.

The operation was initiated following an alert from the Brazilian Football Confederation, which detected suspicious betting activity during two Serie A matches specifically involving the athlete. Investigators believe Ênio may have intentionally received yellow cards in exchange for material or non-material benefits, with bets allegedly placed by individuals close to him.

In a statement, the player’s representatives reaffirmed his commitment to cooperating with the investigation, stating that “his only objective has always been to perform his profession with dignity, loyalty and honesty”, as reported to CNN Brazil.

Good to know: This case follows a growing number of related investigations on footballers in Brazil, including the 2023 indictment of Flamengo’s Bruno Henrique over similar betting fraud allegations

Juventude also issued a statement acknowledging the investigation and confirming that it had granted authorities full access to its facilities. “We reiterate our commitment to integrity and transparency and will remain at the disposal of authorities to support the full clarification of facts,” the club said.

The investigation remains ongoing and seeks to identify other possible participants in the alleged scheme. Crimes under investigation include criminal organisation, fraud, and violations under Brazil’s new General Sports Law, which criminalises tampering with sporting events.

Carlos Mendez

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