Kenya’s national football team goalkeeper, Patrick Matasi, has been provisionally suspended from all football-related activities for 90 days as part of an investigation into alleged match-fixing. The decision was made by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) on Thursday after a video surfaced online, allegedly showing Matasi agreeing to influence the outcome of a match.
The 37-year-old goalkeeper, who plays for Kenyan Premier League club Kakamega Homeboyz, has been a regular figure for the national team since his debut in 2017, earning over 30 international caps. However, Matasi has not played for Kenya since October 2024, when he appeared in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Cameroon, a match in which the Harambee Stars were defeated 4-1.
The video, which has not been independently verified by the BBC, sparked the investigation into the goalkeeper. While the video’s authenticity remains in question, FKF’s swift response has raised concerns over potential match manipulation within Kenyan football.
In a statement issued by the Football Kenya Federation, the organization confirmed that it had launched a thorough investigation into the matter and would cooperate with FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and other relevant authorities to uncover the truth.
Matasi’s club, Kakamega Homeboyz, has expressed full support for the investigation. The club’s owner, Cleophas Shimanyula, spoke out in defense of Matasi, denying any involvement in match-fixing. “He was shocked by the video and firmly denied the allegations,” said Shimanyula. “Kakamega Homeboyz has a strict policy against any form of match manipulation, and we are fully committed to upholding the integrity of the sport.”
While the investigation continues, Matasi has not responded to multiple requests for comment. His temporary suspension raises questions about the influence of match-fixing in Kenyan football, especially after similar incidents have plagued the sport globally in recent years.
The FKF has made it clear that the suspension is a precautionary measure while the investigation unfolds. If Matasi is found guilty of any wrongdoing, further disciplinary actions may be taken, including a permanent ban from football activities.
As the case develops, both the FKF and Kakamega Homeboyz are keen to ensure transparency and fairness in the investigation, emphasizing the importance of protecting the integrity of Kenyan football.
