A shocking match-fixing scandal has sent tremors through Liberian football after leaked messages and audio recordings implicated Shaita Angels President Benita Urey in an alleged bribery scheme involving Paynesville FC players.
According to an investigative report by The Liberian Investigator, Paynesville FC players claimed they received $300 from Urey ahead of a crucial match against Shaita FC in April 2025, a game that ended in a highly suspicious 7-0 defeat.
In the leaked conversation, Paynesville FC player Marlon Harrison reportedly stated, “We received $300 from Benita Urey.” Other players allegedly complained about the unfair distribution of the money, raising further suspicions of foul play.
The Liberia Football Association (LFA) swiftly responded, suspending 11 Paynesville FC players, including star defender Eugene Swen, pending a full investigation. The LFA clarified that the suspensions are precautionary and do not imply guilt.
The controversy erupted after fans and analysts questioned Paynesville FC’s unusually poor performance against Shaita FC. The 7-0 thrashing raised eyebrows, leading the club to voluntarily submit its players for review.
When reached for comment, Benita Urey denied any involvement, telling The Liberian Investigator:
“I have never contacted any Paynesville player to fix a match.”
The scandal has sparked outrage among Liberian football fans, with many calling for stricter regulations to combat corruption in the sport.
“This is a dark day for Liberian football,” said one fan outside the LFA headquarters. “If proven true, those involved must face serious consequences.”
As investigations continue, the LFA has vowed to take decisive action if evidence confirms match-fixing. The case threatens to tarnish the reputation of one of Liberia’s rising clubs and raises urgent questions about integrity in the national league.
What’s next?
- The LFA’s disciplinary committee is expected to review evidence in the coming weeks.
- Suspended players could face lengthy bans if found guilty.
- Calls for transparency and anti-corruption measures in Liberian football grow louder.
For now, the football community waits anxiously as one of the country’s most explosive sporting scandals unfolds.
