FKF hands Matasi indefinite suspension as match-fixing investigations begin

Goalkeeper Patrick Matasi in training with the Kenya national team in October. Photo Credit: Football Kenya Federation

Hours after Football Kenya Federation (FKF) promised to investigate Harambee Stars goalkeeper Patrick Matasi over allegations that he was manipulating matches, the Federation has now moved to suspend the Kakamega Homeboyz custodian for the next 90 days with immediate effect.

In the latest statement from FKF obtained by Pan-Africa Football, the suspension is the result of concerns raised by circulating videos (see above) suggesting possible match manipulation from the former Kenya Police player. Matasi was suspended in accordance with Section VII (2) of the FKF Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations (2016).

"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," read part of the statement.

FKF statement on Matasi suspension as seen by Pan-Africa Football.

"The decision, made in accordance with Section VII (2) of the FKF Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations (2016), has been formally communicated to Kakamega Homeboyz and the player."

The statement continued: "FKF, in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities, has initiated an official investigation into the matter. The Federation remains committed to upholding integrity in football and ensuring a fair and transparent process for all involved parties...Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses."

On Thursday, Matasi was dragged into serious allegations of match-fixing after a secretly recorded video was leaked allegedly showing him negotiating a deal to manipulate the outcome of a match.

While the video is not clear whether the 37-year-old was planning to fix a top-flight or a Harambee Stars match, he is seen seated in the right back seat of a stationary vehicle, actively engaged in a conversation with someone off-camera, who goes ahead to promise him pay if he manages to fix the game in question.

The footage was secretly recorded from the left back seat by another person, though the exact date it was recorded remained unclear.