Kenyan Football Federation opens investigation over suspected match-fixing

Kenyan Football Federation opens investigation over suspected match-fixing

Kenyan Football Federation opens investigation over suspected match-fixing

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is facing one of its most serious crises in recent years after officially launching an investigation into allegations of match-fixing involving its national team.

The move comes in response to the circulation of a troubling video online, in which Kenyan international goalkeeper Patrick Matasi is allegedly seen discussing a plan to manipulate a match result in exchange for money.

In an official statement, the FKF stressed its commitment to protecting the integrity of the sport, declaring that the investigation would be carried out in cooperation with global and continental governing bodies, including FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and other relevant authorities. "The FKF upholds the integrity of football and has launched an official investigation, in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities," the statement read. "We reaffirm our zero-tolerance policy on match manipulation and remain committed to preserving the credibility of our competition."

The incident centers around Kenya’s 4-1 defeat to Cameroon in Yaoundé in October 2024 during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification campaign. The loss was not only a heavy blow on the scoreboard but also a critical result that effectively ended Kenya’s hopes of reaching the 2025 AFCON tournament, which will be hosted in Morocco. Following the defeat, head coach Engin Firat was relieved of his duties, and the national team entered a period of uncertainty and restructuring.

The leaked footage, described as amateur in nature, reportedly shows a man having a conversation with Matasi in which the two discuss the potential of orchestrating a fixed outcome for financial gain. While the authenticity and full context of the video are still under investigation, its release has cast a long shadow over Kenyan football and sparked outrage among fans, analysts, and officials.

The FKF’s decision to act quickly is seen as a necessary step to avoid a deeper scandal that could potentially attract sanctions from international bodies if proven true. Match-fixing is considered one of the gravest offenses in the sport, and global organizations like FIFA and CAF have consistently imposed harsh penalties on individuals and federations found guilty of involvement.

The scandal also comes at a sensitive time for the Kenyan national team, which is trying to rebuild its image and competitiveness on the international stage. Newly appointed head coach Benni McCarthy, a former South African international and ex-FC Porto forward, has taken over with a mandate to restore discipline, structure, and performance to the squad. One of his first notable decisions was to leave Patrick Matasi out of the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon a decision that, in hindsight, may have been influenced by growing concerns over the goalkeeper’s conduct.

While McCarthy has not commented publicly on the ongoing investigation, FKF insiders suggest that the coach has been fully briefed on the matter and supports the federation’s stance on zero tolerance toward corruption and unethical behavior. The federation has also called on anyone with additional information or evidence to come forward and assist in the investigation.

Public reaction has been swift and intense. Many fans have taken to social media to express their dismay and disappointment over the allegations, particularly given the potential long-term impact on Kenyan football. The fear is that, if substantiated, the scandal could deter investment, damage the national team’s reputation, and hinder development programs aimed at nurturing young talent across the country.

The FKF’s collaboration with FIFA and CAF will likely include a full forensic review of the Cameroon match and potentially other fixtures, as governing bodies seek to determine whether this was an isolated incident or part of a broader pattern. Both organizations have the tools and experience to conduct integrity audits, including interviews, financial tracing, and digital evidence analysis.

As the investigation unfolds, the footballing world will be watching closely. Kenya, like many emerging football nations, has been striving to raise its profile in international competition. The potential involvement of a high-profile player like Matasi, who has been one of the national team’s key figures for years, only heightens the stakes.

Should the allegations prove true, consequences could range from lifetime bans for the individuals involved to broader institutional reforms within Kenyan football. On the other hand, if Matasi is cleared, it would mark a crucial moment of vindication and reinforce the importance of due process in addressing such serious claims.

For now, the FKF has promised full transparency and accountability. "We are committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation," the statement concluded. "The trust of our fans, players, and partners depends on our ability to uphold the principles of fair play and honesty. We will not tolerate anything less."

  • Top Countries
  • Around the web
Spain impresses: They play football from another planet

Spain impresses: They play football from another planet

Spain also defeated Georgia in the World Cup qualifiers and remains flawless in the campaign. Moreover, the European champions have not conceded a single goal yet.

Lewandowski returns to Barça injured and will miss El Clásico

Lewandowski returns to Barça injured and will miss El Clásico

Robert Lewandowski has returned to Barcelona with an injury. The La Liga runners-up report that the 37-year-old striker has suffered a small hamstring tear. That means Lewandowski will miss El Clásico.

Lewandowski will not continue at Barcelona, reports in Spain claim

Lewandowski will not continue at Barcelona, reports in Spain claim

Barcelona have reportedly decided not to extend Robert Lewandowski’s contract beyond 2026, ending his spell at Camp Nou. With 105 goals in 156 games, the Polish striker could be heading to AC Milan, while Barça prepare for a future without their veteran goalscorer.

Father of Lamine Yamal confronts Barcelona:  Not fair to my son

Father of Lamine Yamal confronts Barcelona: 'Not fair to my son'

Lamine Yamal’s father is displeased with the FC Barcelona board. According to the father of the star player, his son received too little support in the fight for the Ballon d'Or.

The role of the marquee signing: Can Wolfsburg afford the Vinicius Souza experiment?

The role of the marquee signing: Can Wolfsburg afford the Vinicius Souza experiment?

VfL Wolfsburg dug deep into their pockets for him: Vinicius Souza joined from Sheffield United for 15 million euros. A defensive midfielder being retrained does that make sense?

Baum sidelined for now Virus knocks Collins out

Baum sidelined for now Virus knocks Collins out

Eintracht Frankfurt will have to do without Elias Baum for the time being. The full-back picked up an injury while with the U-21 national team.

Mbappé goes into detail about Messi and Ronaldo in an extensive interview

Mbappé goes into detail about Messi and Ronaldo in an extensive interview

Kylian Mbappé rarely gives major interviews, but he recently accepted an invitation from former top footballer Jorge Valdano. In his football program on Spanish television, Valdano questioned Mbappé about, among others, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Cardoso feels discomfort and leaves training

Cardoso feels discomfort and leaves training

The midfielder was just another one in the group until he had to stop. The red and white club has received no word that Sorloth will not continue with his national team.

Jobe Bellingham linked with Manchester United

Jobe Bellingham linked with Manchester United

Manchester United and Crystal Palace are linked with Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe Bellingham. Reports say Rúben Amorim views the 20 year old as a good fit for a 4-3-3, while competition in Dortmund has limited his starts since a 30 million euro summer move.

Brazil lost to Japan after leading 2-0

Brazil lost to Japan after leading 2-0

Japan beat Brazil 3 to 2 in Tokyo after trailing 2 to 0 at halftime, securing a first ever victory over the Seleção with second half goals from Minamino, Nakamura and Ueda.

Odd:1.38