Gopar Cornelius defends Amas Obasogie amid match-fixing allegations

Former Plateau United tactician Gopar Cornelius has come out in strong defense of Singida Black Stars goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, emphatically asserting the player’s innocence regarding the match-fixing allegations leveled against him by the Tanzanian outfit.

The Nigerian international was recently slapped with a three-month suspension pending a full-scale investigation into the claims. Obasogie has remained steadfast in his denial, maintaining that he would never deliberately compromise his professional integrity or orchestrate a loss for his club.

Cornelius Vows for Obasogie’s Integrity

Reacting to the escalating situation, Cornelius—who has closely tracked Obasogie’s career trajectory since his standout years at Bendel Insurance FC—told Footy-Africa that the goalkeeper is being unfairly targeted and will ultimately be vindicated.

“I have known Amas for a significant period and monitored his development closely during his tenure at Bendel Insurance F.C. He has always been a disciplined, level-headed, and exceptionally talented shot-stopper.”

Cornelius continued by highlighting the goalkeeper’s track record: “I have witnessed him singlehandedly secure victories for Insurance and rescue vital points through his individual brilliance. It is highly improbable that a player of his caliber and character would involve himself in such illicit activities.”

The former Plateau United coach further revealed that he has meticulously reviewed the footage of the specific match under scrutiny. While he conceded that the goalkeeper committed certain technical errors, he argued that the blame lies equally with a porous defensive line.

“The video footage allegedly showing evidence of match-fixing was actually circulated within our professional goalkeepers’ WhatsApp group for peer review. After a thorough analysis, my assessment is that while his handling and grip could have been more secure in those moments, his defenders completely hung him out to dry,” Cornelius explained.

“If this specific match serves as the primary basis for the investigation, then, quite frankly, there is no case to answer. He is a top-tier goalkeeper, and I find it hard to believe he would ever jeopardize his career by getting caught up in such a scandal.”

Cornelius concluded by expressing his optimism that the truth will prevail. He remains hopeful that once the judicial process is finalized, Obasogie will be cleared of all wrongdoing, allowing his suspension to be overturned so he can return to the pitch.