FKF Takes Action After Goalkeeper Patrick Matasi Linked To Explosive Match-Fixing Claims

The claims, which have sent shockwaves through the local football scene, have prompted FKF to take action to safeguard the integrity of the game.

FKF Takes Action After Goalkeeper Patrick Matasi Linked To Explosive Match-Fixing Claims
Harambee Stars goalkeeper Patrick Matasi during a past game. /PULSE SPORTS KENYA

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has launched an official investigation into allegations of match manipulation involving Harambee Stars goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, following videos circulating online that have raised serious concerns.

The claims, which have sent shockwaves through the local football scene, have prompted FKF to take action to safeguard the integrity of the game. The federation has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on match-fixing and vowed to take stern action against the goalkeeper and anyone involved in the matter, if found culpable.

In its statement, the Federation confirmed that an investigation is underway to verify the authenticity of the videos, which earlier went viral, appearing to show the goalkeeper receiving instructions on match-fixing.

While confirming their awareness of the video circulating online, the federation said, "FKF upholds the integrity of football and has launched an official investigation in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities. We reaffirm our zero-tolerance policy on match manipulation and are committed to safeguarding the credibility of our competitions."

The inside of Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, March 23, 2025, during Kenya vs Gabon. /PCS

The Federation added, "This investigation will adhere to FKF’s Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations and FIFA guidelines, ensuring a fair, transparent, and thorough process. The rights of the player and his club will be respected, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings."

FKF has also called on individuals with credible information on the matter to come forward, assuring that all reports will be handled with strict confidentiality. Information can be submitted via integrity@footballkenya.org. FKF will provide further updates as the investigation progresses.

Matasi, a key figure in Kenya’s national team, has yet to respond to the allegations. In one of the widely shared clips, the goalkeeper is seen conversing with unidentified individuals, allegedly discussing details of a "deal" to influence the outcome of a football match.

Unaware that he is being recorded, the shot-stopper appears engrossed in the conversation, which takes place inside a car. “I repeat before the boss, this is the first deal, I beg you. You know how we have done this, I have never let you down, you have never let me down,” an unidentified man says as the individual nods in agreement.

While the specific match and date remain unknown, the video's content has sparked widespread speculation and condemnation, with many social media users independently linking the allegations to some of Matasi's costly goalkeeping errors during vital games for club and country that earned him intense criticism.

"Low trust society problems. Honesty is in high demand in 2025, and there is none among black people in the entire world and especially in Africa. Kenya, being on top of the countries considered to be the most corrupt in the world," a social media user, Hassan K, wrote on X. 

Another user, Kamau, added, "I don’t blame him, football in Kenya is not considered a full-time career. Most of these players in the KPL don’t earn enough money to sustain their lifestyle. I don’t understand why a professional football player should have a 9-5 job, the majority play football as part-time."

Still, if the goalkeeper is found guilty of match-fixing, he could face severe consequences, as FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) enforce a zero-tolerance policy on the practice.

Players previously implicated in match-fixing have received harsh penalties, including long-term suspensions and lifetime bans. In some countries, match-fixing is a criminal offense, with those convicted facing possible jail time.

Kenyan football also risks serious repercussions if the allegations are proven true. The sport's credibility could suffer, potentially driving away investors and sponsors, while tarnishing Kenya’s reputation on the international stage.

FKF President Hussein Mohammed during a past address. /CAPITAL GROUP