BREAKING: Two soccer players have been charged with a shocking $18,000 betting fraud scheme linked to yellow cards in the A-League. Former player Riku Danzaki, 25, and current Bayside Argonauts striker Yuta Hirayama, 27, faced court today in Melbourne as allegations mount against them.
Danzaki appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court earlier today, facing 10 charges related to corrupt betting practices. Authorities allege that he engaged in corrupt conduct during four matches in April and May 2023, deliberately receiving yellow cards to profit from betting. Court documents reveal that he placed a $250 bet with Bet365 on April 27, netting a profit of $1,375 from a match against Sydney FC.
The allegations intensify, with Danzaki accused of attempting to win another $3,250 by deliberately receiving a yellow card during a game against Melbourne City on May 22. His conduct, according to police, was aimed at corrupting the betting outcome, violating integrity rules. Danzaki’s lawyer requested a diversion program to avoid a criminal conviction, pending prosecution approval.
Meanwhile, Hirayama, facing 18 charges, is accused of profiting over $17,000 by betting on matches where Danzaki received yellow cards. His bets ranged from $66 to $500. Court documents indicate that he possessed insider information regarding Danzaki’s yellow card likelihood and attempted to place a $1,000 bet with a potential $3,250 payout on May 24.
Both players have not yet entered formal pleas and remain on bail as the case unfolds. The matter has been adjourned until August 13 to allow prosecutors to consider Danzaki’s diversion request.
This scandal raises critical questions about the integrity of sports betting in Australia and the potential implications for the A-League. As investigations continue, both players’ futures remain uncertain.
For anyone affected by gambling issues, assistance is available through the National Gambling Helpline at 1800 858 858. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
