Aussie Players Cleared Of Gambling Claim

FIFA have cleared Australia players of any wrongdoing after squad members bet among themselves on who would score the country's first World Cup goal. Although all players have signed a charter agreeing not to gamble on the tournament, FIFA said that refers to 'professional betting' at bookmakers or online and are unconcerned about the reports from the Australia camp.

After their 3-1 victory over Japan, Everton midfielder Tim Cahill revealed several team-mates had backed him to score his side's first goal and reserve keeper Zeljko Kalac was acting an unofficial bookmaker.

FIFA communications director Markus Siegler said: "It's true players and team officials have all signed this charter but if there are individuals saying 'I bet with you who scores the first goal' this cannot be viewed as constituting betting."

June 19, 2006
Posted By Matt Manchester
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