Liberia: LFA Slaps Match-Fixing Bans on Urey, Swen as Both Cry Foul

MONROVIA — The Liberia Football Association (LFA), through its Grievance and Disciplinary Committee, has imposed heavy sanctions on Shaita Angels FC President Benita W. Urey and Paynesville FC player Eugene Swen after finding both guilty of involvement in match manipulation during the 2024/25 LFA First Division League season.

By: Christopher C.Walker 0777898224/0886723075 [email protected]

In a media release dated January 8, 2026, the LFA said the actions of the two officials violated Part II, Chapter 2 (20)(1 & 3) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which prohibits the manipulation of football matches and competitions.

According to the association, the sanctions stem from investigations into two league fixtures Paynesville FC vs. Freeport FC and Shaita Angels FC vs. Paynesville FC in which the committee said evidence established deliberate attempts to influence match outcomes.

As part of the ruling, Miss Urey has been banned for five years from all football-related activities, including administrative and sporting roles, and is also prohibited from entering any football stadium during the period of the ban.

Eugene Swen, a registered Paynesville FC player, received a two-year ban from all football-related activities and stadium access, inclusive of a previous suspension already served.

The LFA described the sanctions as a demonstration of its zero-tolerance policy toward match manipulation and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the integrity and credibility of domestic football competitions.

The decision has sparked widespread debate across Liberia’s football community, with stakeholders calling for stronger governance, transparency, and accountability within the sport.

Urey Rejects Allegations, Cites Political Motivation

In a strongly worded statement, Miss Urey categorically rejected the LFA’s findings, describing the allegations as “false, misleading, and politically motivated.”

“The LFA Grievance and Disciplinary Committee has issued a claim alleging my involvement in match manipulation. I categorically reject and denounce this claim,” Urey said. “This baseless accusation is clearly intended to target me because of my open support for Cassell A. Kuoh’s presidential bid.”

Urey insisted that the ruling was founded on “speculation and gossip,” stressing that no evidence had been presented and that no individual had come forward to claim she offered money or engaged in any form of match fixing.

“I have never once communicated with any Paynesville FC player regarding match fixing as claimed by the FA,” she stated, adding that she would appeal the decision and pursue all legal avenues to defend her integrity and reputation.

She further accused the LFA of applying double standards, pointing to past matches involving other clubs that, in her view, did not attract similar scrutiny.

“Despite this politically driven ruling, Shaita Angels will stand firm,” Urey said. “Liberian football needs development, transparency, and improvement. I will not be controlled or silenced.”

Identifying herself as a young woman from Careysburg, Urey pledged to continue empowering young footballers and vowed to take the matter “to the fullest extent of the law.”

Swen Calls Decision ‘Unfair’

For his part, Eugene Swen also rejected the committee’s ruling, describing it as unjust.

“This is totally an infringement, out of order,” Swen said when contacted for his response.

LFA Stands Firm

The Liberia Football Association, headquartered in Swankamore Community along SKD Boulevard in Congo Town, has maintained that its actions are consistent with FIFA regulations and aimed at protecting the image and future of Liberian football.

Both Urey and Swen are expected to pursue appeals through the appropriate channels as the controversy continues to unfold.