Aussie soccer stars hit with bombshell alleged corruption scandal

• Two unnamed individuals will face court over an alleged betting scandal 
• One of the two men charged is confirmed to be a Western United player  

By AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATED PRESS

Two men, including a Western United footballer, will face court for their involvement in an alleged betting scandal surrounding the A-League men’s soccer season.

Detectives from the Victoria Police Sporting Integrity Intelligence Unit charged a 24-year-old West Melbourne man and a 27-year-old Kingsville man on Sunday with numerous offences, including use of corrupt conduct for betting purposes.

Both were bailed to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on July 31.

While the individuals are yet to be publicly named, it is confirmed one is a player at Western United, which finished third in the A-League Men competition this season, while the other man is a state leagues player.

‘The club is aware that one Western United player has been charged in relation to an alleged breach of sports betting guidelines,’ a United club spokesperson said.

‘We take this matter seriously, condemn any actions that compromise the integrity of the game, and are cooperating fully with all relevant authorities. ‘Given the nature of the investigation, we are unable to comment any further on the matter.’

Two A-Legaue stars have been arrested and charged for their involvement in an alleged betting scandal 

While both men have not yet been named, it is confirmed that one individual is a Western United player

Police allege four matches in April and May 2025 were the subject of ‘player to be carded’ wagering manipulation.

The Australian Professional Leagues, who run the A-League competitions, confirmed a player had been charged.

‘The Australian Professional Leagues is aware that one A-League player has been charged by Victorian Police with offences related to gambling,’ a spokesperson said.

‘The integrity of our sport is something that has to be protected without compromise, and we are engaging with all relevant authorities to assist with this matter.’

In a statement, a Football Australia spokesperson said it took the integrity of the game extremely seriously and was fully cooperating with external authorities.

‘Football Australia has taken swift action today to impose ‘no fault interim suspensions’ to the two individuals charged, and those suspensions will remain in place until further notice,’ the statement said.

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Aussie soccer stars hit with bombshell alleged corruption scandal

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