By Trend News Line 2024-03-19 09:00:00.
Significant Increase in Suspicious Matches
In a recent report by Starlizard Integrity Services (SIS), it has been revealed that there has been a significant increase in the number of suspicious football matches played globally in 2023. The report analysed over 65,000 games in national and international competitions, as well as non-competitive matches, identifying a total of 167 matches as suspicious. This represents an increase of 16% from the previous year, with a notable rise in suspicious betting activity on First-Half Only markets.
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Regional Analysis of Suspicious Matches
The study conducted by SIS also looked at the regional distribution of suspicious matches. It was found that 41.3% of the suspicious matches were played in the UEFA (European) region, accounting for 0.18% of all matches analysed in that region. The AFC (Asian) region, on the other hand, saw the highest regional percentage of suspicious matches at 0.47%. The report also highlighted that just under half of all suspicious matches identified were played in domestic leagues below the top leagues.
Rise in Suspicious Betting Activity
One of the key findings of the report was the increase in suspicious betting activity, particularly on First-Half Only markets. Of the 167 matches flagged as suspicious, 27% involved betting solely on the First-Half Only markets, a significant rise from the previous year. This trend indicates a shift in the tactics used by those involved in match-fixing, with a focus on specific betting markets to avoid detection.
Concerns for Club Friendly and Youth Matches
The report also highlighted the disproportionate prevalence of suspicious matches in club friendly and youth games. Despite representing a small percentage of all matches analysed, these types of games accounted for a significant portion of the suspicious matches identified. This raises concerns about the vulnerabilities presented by these lower-profile matches and the need for increased vigilance in monitoring their integrity.
Call for Further Investigation
Matches analysed by SIS are categorised as suspicious when they exhibit suspect betting patterns indicative of match-fixing. While the level of suspicion may vary across matches, SIS believes that all identified matches warrant further investigation. The findings of the report underscore the ongoing challenge of combating suspected match-fixing in football and the need for continued efforts to safeguard the integrity of the sport.
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About Starlizard Integrity Services
Starlizard Integrity Services (SIS) is the specialist integrity division of Starlizard, a London-based sports betting consultancy. With a deep understanding of sports performance and betting markets, SIS is uniquely positioned to identify suspicious matches and betting patterns. Since its establishment in 2017, SIS has been dedicated to ensuring the integrity of sporting contests and providing independent integrity services to sports governing bodies. For more information, visit www.starlizardintegrity.com.
Conclusion
The report by Starlizard Integrity Services sheds light on the prevalence of suspected match-fixing in football and the challenges faced in maintaining the integrity of the sport. With a significant increase in suspicious matches and evolving tactics in suspicious betting activity, the need for continued vigilance and investigation is more critical than ever. As the football community grapples with these issues, efforts to combat match-fixing and preserve the integrity of the game must remain a top priority..
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