Kenyan football has been rocked by yet another controversy, as Harambee Stars and Kakamega Homeboyz goalkeeper Patrick Matasi has been provisionally suspended for 90 days over allegations of match-fixing. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) announced the decision following the circulation of videos on social media that allegedly show Matasi in discussions with an unknown individual believed to be a match-fixing recruiter.
This suspension means that Matasi is barred from participating in all FKF-sanctioned competitions and events as investigations continue.
FKF’s Official Statement
On Thursday, FKF released an official statement confirming Matasi’s suspension and assuring fans and stakeholders that the matter is being taken seriously. The federation has also launched a full-scale investigation in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities.
“This decision, made in accordance with Section VII (2) of the FKF Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations (2016), has been formally communicated to Kakamega Homeboyz FC and the player,” FKF stated.
FKF emphasized its commitment to upholding integrity in football, ensuring that Kenyan football remains clean and fair. The federation also promised to provide further updates as the inquiry progresses.
Matasi Denies Allegations
Despite the growing controversy, Patrick Matasi has strongly denied any involvement in match-fixing.
Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula revealed that he personally sent Matasi the first video on Wednesday night after it surfaced on social media. According to Shimanyula, Matasi immediately dismissed the video, stating that he had no knowledge of it.
When a second video emerged on Thursday morning, Shimanyula once again shared it with Matasi, who continued to maintain his innocence, insisting that he was not the person in the footage.
Kakamega Homeboyz Distances Itself from the Scandal
With Matasi’s name now at the center of the scandal, Kakamega Homeboyz has been forced to defend itself, with chairman Cleophas Shimanyula making it clear that the club has nothing to do with the allegations.
“For Matasi, if there is any evidence against him, it will not be linked to Kakamega Homeboyz. He has only been with us for a month. People should not refer to him as a Homeboyz player in this case because when all this happened, he was not in our squad,” Shimanyula explained.
He further stated that Matasi has only played three matches for Homeboyz, including FKF Cup fixtures where he was instrumental in saving penalties. Shimanyula also reaffirmed his stand against match-fixing, reminding the public that he has previously exposed five players involved in similar cases.
What’s Next for Matasi?
As the investigation unfolds, Matasi will remain suspended from all FKF competitions. The outcome of the inquiry will determine his future in football.
If found guilty, Matasi could face a lengthy ban from football, possibly ending his professional career. However, if he proves his innocence, he will be allowed to return to the pitch and continue his career.
For now, the football community waits to see how the investigation will unfold. Will Matasi clear his name, or is this the beginning of the end for the veteran goalkeeper?
