A-League Player Among Two Charged in Alleged Match-Fixing Scandal Involving Yellow Cards

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — An A-League player and a state league footballer have been charged by Victoria Police in connection with an alleged scheme to manipulate yellow cards for betting profits during matches this season.

Western United confirmed Friday that one of its players was among the accused, though the club did not disclose his identity. A 24-year-old West Melbourne man and a 27-year-old Kingsville man were charged following an investigation into suspicious betting activity surrounding four A-League matches between April and May.

Both players received “no-fault interim suspensions” from Football Australia (FA), barring them from competition pending further legal proceedings.

Police Investigation and Charges

Authorities executed search warrants Friday morning after a joint probe involving Football Australia and the Sporting Integrity Intelligence Unit.

The West Melbourne man faces 10 charges, including:

• Four counts of engaging in conduct that corrupts a betting outcome

• Four counts of facilitating corrupt betting conduct

• Using inside information for betting purposes

• Attempting to commit an indictable offense

The Kingsville man was hit with 16 charges, including:

• 11 counts of using confidential information for betting

• Four counts of facilitating corrupt betting conduct

• Attempting to commit an indictable offense

Both were released on bail and are scheduled to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on July 31.

Football Australia’s Response

In a statement, FA condemned the alleged misconduct:

“Football Australia takes the integrity of the game extremely seriously. Behavior that undermines fair competition has no place in our sport. We are cooperating fully with authorities and have imposed immediate suspensions.”

Western United also issued a brief response:

“We are aware of the charges and condemn any actions that threaten the integrity of football. We are cooperating with authorities and cannot comment further.”

Betting Scandal Raises Integrity Concerns

This case marks one of Australia’s most high-profile match-fixing allegations in recent years. With legalized sports betting surging globally, governing bodies face increasing pressure to detect and punish corruption in football.

The A-League, already battling declining attendance and TV ratings, now confronts another reputational challenge. Analysts warn that such scandals could further erode fan trust unless stricter monitoring is enforced.