Gopar Cornelius Backs Amas Obasogie Amid Match-Fixing Allegations

Former Plateau United F.C. coach Gopar Cornelius has thrown his support behind Amas Obasogie, insisting the Super Eagles goalkeeper is innocent of the allegations levelled against him.

Obasogie, who was part of Nigeria’s squad that finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, is currently serving a three-month suspension pending investigation by his Tanzanian club, Singida Black Stars S.C., over alleged match-fixing.

Reacting to the development, Cornelius described Obasogie as a level-headed and talented goalkeeper, expressing confidence that he will clear his name.

“I have known Amas for a long time and monitored him closely at Bendel Insurance F.C.. He is a level-headed and talented goalkeeper,” he told Footy-Africa.

“I have seen him singlehandedly win games for Insurance and earn valuable points because of his ability. I doubt he would be involved in such things.”

Cornelius also revealed that the video cited in the allegations had been circulated among goalkeepers for analysis, adding that he did not see any clear evidence of wrongdoing.

“In fact, the video where he was alleged to have fixed the game was shared in our goalkeepers’ WhatsApp group. After analysing it, I felt that although he could have done better with his grip, his defenders also failed him.

“If that match is the reason for the investigation, then there is no case, to be honest. He is a good goalkeeper and I doubt he would want to be caught in such a situation.”

The former coach further recalled conversations with Obasogie’s goalkeeper trainer at Bendel Insurance — his former teammate during their time at Plateau United F.C. — praising the shot-stopper’s outstanding performances.

“I truly hope he is innocent and that the investigation will prove it when the suspension is lifted. It is not easy playing abroad, and this will not help him. I am confident he will be cleared of the charges,” Cornelius concluded.

Obasogie continues to await the outcome of the investigation as he seeks to restore his reputation and return to action.

Samuel Ahmadu

Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. On the back of domestic engagement since 2008, he began his international career journey at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.

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