Patrick Matasi: Everything you need to know as ex-AFCON star is suspended amidst match-fixing allegations and video
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Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi concedes a goal against Russia | Imago

Patrick Matasi: Everything you need to know as ex-AFCON star is suspended amidst match-fixing allegations and video

Ayoola Kelechi 11:06 - 28.03.2025

The Harambe Stars goalkeeper has been in hot water since a video allegedly showing him negotiating a match-fixing bribe emerged

Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi has been provisionally suspended for 90 days by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) following concerns over a viral video allegedly linking him to match-fixing.

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While investigations are ongoing, Matasi has yet to issue a public response, and his current club, Kakamega Homeboyz, has vowed to stand by him unless concrete evidence proves otherwise.

FKF suspend Matasi, reiterate zero-tolerance for match fixing

In a recently released statement, FKF reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on match-fixing saying, “FKF, in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities, has initiated an official investigation into the matter.

“The Federation remains committed to upholding integrity in football and ensuring a fair and transparent process for all involved parties.

“We are committed to safeguarding the credibility of our competitions and ensuring that football remains fair and transparent.”

A video circulating online allegedly shows Matasi in a conversation with a match-fixing agent inside a vehicle. The individual, who remains unidentified, instructs the goalkeeper to concede two goals in the first half, particularly within the first 20 minutes.

In response, Matasi appears to suggest that he would involve a defender to ensure the plan’s execution.

Kakamega Homeboyz back Matasi amidst controversy

Despite the ongoing controversy, Kakamega Homeboyz owner Cleophas Shimanyula has openly supported their goalkeeper, Matasi, insisting that the club has found no wrongdoing on his part.

Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi | Imago
Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi | Imago Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi | Imago

Shimanyula revealed that Matasi has kept three consecutive clean sheets since joining the club a month ago and that he will continue playing unless FKF provides concrete evidence against him.

Speaking to BBC Africa, Shimanyula said, “When we watched this video, we found that Matasi has not wronged the club.

“In a video, there can be misinterpretations and false narratives, and we cannot trust everything. He is innocent until proven guilty, and we will act accordingly if new evidence emerges.”

This stance has raised discussions within the Kenyan football community, with some demanding stricter action, while others caution against condemning Matasi without definitive proof.

What next for Patrick Matasi?

FKF emphasised that this investigation will adhere to FIFA guidelines and anti-match manipulation regulations, ensuring a fair and transparent process.

Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi | Channel 15 News
Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi | Channel 15 News Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi | Channel 15 News

While Matasi has not spoken publicly, FKF has urged anyone with credible evidence to come forward, promising strict confidentiality in handling reports.

Matasi, who has played for Kenya Police FC, Tusker FC, AFC Leopards, and Ethiopia’s Saint Georges FC, remains a key figure in Kenyan football despite the uncertainty surrounding his career.

Patrick Matasi in his last match for Kenya against Cameroon | Imago
Patrick Matasi in his last match for Kenya against Cameroon | Imago Patrick Matasi in his last match for Kenya against Cameroon | Imago

His last appearance for the Harambee Stars, a 4-1 loss to Cameroon, had already raised suspicions due to a seemingly soft final goal conceded.

For now, Matasi’s fate rests in the hands of FKF and FIFA as they analyze evidence and gather testimonies before making a final ruling.