By Trend News Line 2024-03-19 09:00:00.
**Investigation Reveals Alarming Increase in Suspicious Football Matches**
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**Uncovering Disturbing Trends in Football Match Fixing**
In a recent study conducted by sports integrity specialists Starlizard Integrity Services (SIS), over 65,000 football matches were analysed to identify potential match-fixing activities. The findings of the report, released in 2024, have raised significant concerns within the football community.
**Uncovering Suspicious Matches Around the Globe**
The report highlighted that out of the 65,000 matches analysed, a total of 167 football matches played in 2023 were flagged as suspicious. This represents a worrying 16% increase from the previous year, indicating a rise in potential match manipulation.
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**Regional Disparities and Vulnerabilities**
The analysis revealed that 41.3% of the suspicious matches were played in the UEFA (European) region, while the AFC (Asian) region had the highest regional percentage of suspicious matches at 0.47%. Surprisingly, even top-level leagues were not immune, with over a quarter of suspicious matches occurring in these competitions.
**Risks in Lower-Level Leagues and Youth Matches**
One concerning trend identified by SIS was the disproportionate number of suspicious matches in domestic leagues below the top tiers and in youth games. Despite representing a smaller percentage of total matches analysed, these lower-level competitions showed a higher susceptibility to match-fixing activities.
**Emergence of New Betting Markets**
The report also shed light on the rise of suspicious betting activities in First-Half Only markets. Approximately 27% of the identified suspicious matches in 2023 involved betting solely on the first half, indicating a shift in the modus operandi of potential match-fixers.
**A Call for Further Investigation**
Matches categorised as “suspicious” by SIS are those that exhibit suspect betting patterns associated with potential match-fixing. While the level of suspicion may vary, SIS emphasises the need for further investigation to maintain the integrity of the sport.
**Expert Commentary on the Findings**
Affy Sheikh, Head of Starlizard Integrity Services, expressed concern over the persistent threat of match-fixing in football. Sheikh highlighted the challenges faced in combating suspected match-fixing and the need for continued vigilance within the industry.
**About Starlizard Integrity Services**
Starlizard Integrity Services (SIS) is a specialised division of Starlizard, a renowned sports betting consultancy based in London. With a deep understanding of sports performance and betting markets, SIS is dedicated to identifying and preventing suspicious activities in sports competitions.
**Conclusion**
The report by Starlizard Integrity Services serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against match-fixing in football. With the rise of suspicious activities across various competitions, it is imperative for stakeholders in the industry to work together to safeguard the integrity of the sport..
“suspicious football matches globally”
“167 suspicious football matches 2023”.
