Gothenburg vs AIK fixture postponed after alleged 'match-fixing attempt' uncovered

A player in AIK was allegedly approached by a matchfixer on Tuesday

Thursday 18 May 2017 10:19 BST
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Gamla Ullevi, the stadium where the match in question was due to be played
Gamla Ullevi, the stadium where the match in question was due to be played (Getty)

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A Swedish league match between Gothenburg and AIK was called off Thursday because of an apparent match-fixing attempt.

Swedish soccer federation general secretary Hakan Sjostrand said it was “a very serious attack against Swedish football and we will never, never accept it.”

The match had been scheduled for Thursday in Gothenburg. The federation said an AIK player was offered “a substantial amount... if he actively contributes to the club losing the evening's planned match.”

Aftonbladet, the Swedish tabloid, reported that Gothenburg said its goalkeeper was approached.

Sjostrand said he was informed of the attempt late Wednesday, adding he regretted to postpone the game which he described as “one of the season's finest moments.”

Swedish police spokesman Fredrik Gardare said authorities were “taking this seriously” but refused to give details about the investigation.

“Those who try to pressure players either with threats or bribes will have a tough time,” Gardare said.

AIK, a team based in Stockholm, is in sixth place in the league with 14 points while Gothenburg is in 11th with 10 points.

AIK sporting director Bjorn Wesstrom said it had not been decided when the game would be played, adding that the players would not comment on the situation.

AP

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