- Patrick Matasi gets a 90-day suspension over match-fixing allegations
- FKF, FIFA, and CAF investigate the claims
- FKF reaffirms commitment to team discipline
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has handed Patrick Matasi a 90-day provisional suspension after a video surfaced showing the Kenya National Team goalkeeper allegedly discussing match-fixing in the country’s top-flight league.
FKF took disciplinary action against Matasi, citing potential violations of professional conduct after launching an investigation into the viral video. In the footage, Matasi appears to be negotiating to manipulate the outcome of a match in exchange for money, raising serious concerns that prompted the FKF to impose the temporary ban.
A statement from the FKF read: “The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has provisionally suspended goalkeeper Patrick Matasi from all FKF-sanctioned events and competitions for 90 days, following concerns raised by circulating videos suggesting possible match manipulation.”
The FKF further clarified that the suspension aligns with Section VII (2) of the FKF Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations of 2016.
The federation’s announcement highlighted its commitment to upholding integrity and discipline within the national team. The rules permit the FKF CEO to temporarily suspend individuals suspected of match-fixing or other related prohibited actions if there is sufficient evidence following an investigation.
During his suspension, Matasi will undergo a thorough investigation by FKF, with support from FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The issue first emerged on March 26, when a video surfaced allegedly showing Matasi conversing with an unidentified person about match outcomes. Matasi, seemingly unaware he was being filmed, appears to agree with instructions given by an unseen individual.
While Matasi has denied any involvement in match-fixing, additional videos have surfaced, showing the goalkeeper letting in unusually soft goals.
As part of his provisional suspension, Matasi is barred from participating in any FKF-sanctioned football events for three months, pending the conclusion of the investigation.
The FKF emphasized that all national team players must adhere to the highest standards of discipline, both on and off the field, reaffirming its commitment to professionalism within the squad.
