Former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Patrick Matasi has found himself at the centre of a storm with allegations of match-fixing, in a development that could shake the football industry in Kenya if proved to be true.
Kenyans on social media are reacting with outrage to a video allegedly linking the former Harambee Stars goalkeeper to a possible betting ring. In the video, Matasi appears to be listening and nodding in agreement as an unidentified individual gives instructions on the next moves.It is not clear when the video was taken.
The former Kenya Police FC shot-stopper played for Ethiopia’s Saint Georges FC, Tusker FC and AFC Leopards. He was recently released by Police FC under unclear circumstances.
His last appearance for Harambee Stars saw him concede four goals in a 4-1 defeat to Cameroon. The loss diminished Kenya’s chances of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations. Shortly after, head coach Engin Firat resigned, bringing an end to his troubled tenure with the national team. With the current allegations, his recent performance will certainly come under close scrutiny.
Renowned coach Frank Ouna added his voice to the saga, sharing his experience: “As a coach or assistant coach, both at club and national level, I have witnessed goals conceded under very strange circumstances. Seeing the video posted by Kiarie Mbugua today, some things are becoming much clearer. Awuoro sana.”
Ouna cited a specific example from an international friendly match between Kenya’s Harambee Stars and Uganda’s Cranes, which ended in a 1-1 draw at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos. In that match, striker Michael Olunga had given Kenya the lead in the 32nd minute before Uganda’s Moses Waiswa scored a late equalizer with just two minutes to go. Matasi was the custodian at the time.
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