Kenya FA suspends national team goalkeeper Patrick Matasi over match fixing video

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has slapped Patrick Matasi with a 90-day provisional suspension after video emerged of the Kenya National Team goalkeeper negotiating to fix a match in the country’s top-flight league.

The FKF moved to take disciplinary action against Harambee Stars goalkeeper Matasi, citing potential breaches of professional conduct after opening an investigation into a viral social media video.

Matasi was seen in the video negotiating to throw a match in exchange for money, which has sparked serious concerns that led the FKF to hand the provisional ban on the goalkeeper.

“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 statement read in part.

In the statement, the Kenyan football governing body said the suspension was effected in accordance with Section VII (2) of the FKF Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations of 2016.

The federation announced the decision, emphasizing its commitment to upholding discipline and integrity within the national team setup.

The act gives the FKF CEO the provision to temporarily suspend individuals suspected of match manipulation or any other related prohibited activities if there are sufficient grounds to suspend the offender following an investigation.

While serving his suspension, Matasi will be subjected to an intense investigation by the FKF, in collaboration with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Matasi’s troubles began on Wednesday, March 26, when a video purportedly showing the goalkeeper alongside an unidentified individual emerged. In the video, the pair appear to be discussing the outcomes of games, with the individual believed to be Matasi nodding to instructions from another person outside the video frame.

In the video, the Harambee Stars goalkeeper appears unaware that he is being filmed.

The Kakamega Homeboyz goalkeeper has since denied any involvement in match-fixing, despite other videos emerging online showing the shot-stopper conceding suspiciously soft goals.

Following the provisional suspension, Matasi will be effectively barred from participating in any official football matches sanctioned by the FKF for the next three months until investigations are concluded

FKF has reiterated that all national team players are expected to adhere to the highest standards of discipline, both on and off the pitch.

In a brief statement, FKF underlined its stance on maintaining professionalism within the squad.

Matasi has yet to publicly respond to the federation’s decision.

However, sources close to the player suggest that he is keen on resolving any issues and reclaiming his place in the national team.

Harambee Stars are currently preparing for upcoming international fixtures, and FKF is expected to name a squad for the matches soon.

Whether Matasi will be included remains uncertain, but the federation’s stance on discipline sends a clear message to all players representing Kenya at the international level.

Source: myjoyonline.com