Kenya goalkeeper under investigation for alleged match-fixing involvement

The Kenya Football Federation (FKF) has initiated an investigation following allegations that goalkeeper Patrick Matasi may be involved in match-fixing.

Matasi, 37, who plays for Kenyan Premier League club Kakamega Homeboyz, has earned over 30 international caps, with his most recent appearance for the Harambee Stars coming in October during a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

An undated video surfaced online, which the BBC has been unable to verify, seemingly showing Matasi discussing a deal to influence the outcome of a league match.

"I have spoken with him, and he was equally surprised by what he saw in the video. He insists he is unaware of any match-fixing," Homeboyz owner Cleophas Shimanyula told BBC Sport Africa.

The FKF has confirmed it will collaborate with FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and other relevant authorities to investigate the matter.

"We uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards match manipulation and remain committed to maintaining the integrity of our competitions," the FKF said in a statement.

The investigation will follow FKF's anti-match manipulation regulations and FIFA guidelines, ensuring a fair, transparent, and comprehensive process. The player's and his club’s rights will be respected, and appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings.

Support to Matasi

Shimanyula backed Matasi, pointing to the fact the veteran has kept three clean sheets in as many games since joining the club a month ago.

"When we watched this video, we found that Matasi has not wronged the club," he said.

"In a video there can misinterpretations and false narratives and we cannot trust everything.

"He will keep playing for us because there's no wrongdoing on his part as far as we are concerned - unless there's evidence or the FKF writes to us to say they are suspecting the player of some wrongdoing.

"He is innocent until proven guilty and then we will act."

The FKF has called on anyone with credible information to assist its investigation, with any reports to be handled with strict confidentiality.

Shimanyula also challenged the Kenyan footballing community to provide evidence against Matasi.

"Kakamega Homeboyz is against any form of match manipulation," he said.

"In the past we've reported match-fixing regarding some of our players who fixed a game with the coach and punishments were handed down by Fifa.

"We have our own internal systems that we use to also look at match-fixing and I cannot speak on behalf of other clubs.

"As Kakamega Homeboyz we are asking anyone who has evidence of Matasi fixing a game to bring it forward."