The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has opened a formal investigation into Harambee Stars and Kakamega Homeboyz goalkeeper Patrick Matasi following the circulation of videos online raising concerns about possible match manipulation.

In a statement issued on Thursday, March 27, 2025, FKF confirmed that it was aware of video clips circulating on social media featuring a conversation involving a person referred to as “Matasi” and an unidentified individual.

The footage appears to suggest discussions related to influencing match outcomes.

The federation said it has already commenced a joint investigation with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities as part of its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of football in Kenya.

“The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is aware of videos circulating online involving goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, raising concerns about possible match manipulation,” the statement read.

“FKF upholds the integrity of football and has launched an official investigation in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities.”

FKF further assured that the inquiry will be conducted under its Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations and FIFA’s global guidelines on integrity, promising 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,” the statement reads.

Additionally, the federation called on members of the public and stakeholders to come forward with credible information, pledging to handle all reports with strict confidentiality.

“We encourage anyone with credible information to assist in this investigation,” FKF stated.

FKF has promised to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.

“We reaffirm our zero-tolerance policy on match manipulation and are committed to safeguarding the credibility of our competitions,” FKF added.

Who is Matasi

Matasi is one of Kenya’s most experienced goalkeepers, having played for Harambee Stars and top-tier clubs including Tusker FC, Posta Rangers, and until recently, Kenya Police FC.

He recently signed a two-year deal with Kakamega Homeboyz after leaving league leaders Kenya Police FC during the mid-season transfer window.  

He has represented the national team in several high-profile competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Previous match-fixing investigations

This is not the first time FKF has launched a probe into suspected match manipulation.

In May 2024, the federation suspended three referees and a player over similar allegations while also opening investigations into the conduct of several other football stakeholders.

At the time, Nairobi City Stars goalkeeper Kevin Otieno Olang’o and Kibera United team manager Abdulkarim Amele were provisionally suspended pending investigations.

Referees Meshack Omondi, Jacqueline Barongo, and Stephen Adeya were also sidelined from officiating duties.

“Football Kenya Federation wishes to inform all its members and the general public that the FKF Integrity Department has opened investigations into alleged match-fixing involvement by the following individuals,” FKF announced then.

The suspended individuals were barred from all football activities until the investigations were concluded.