Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi has been allowed to temporarily return to football following a High Court ruling in Kakamega. The court issued a 30-day conservatory order, suspending the Football Kenya Federation’s (FKF) decision to ban him over match-fixing allegations.
Matasi was suspended on March 27, 2025, after a video surfaced online allegedly showing someone resembling him receiving instructions to influence the outcome of a football match. However, Matasi has strongly denied the claims, insisting that he is not the person featured in the video.
In response to the allegations, FKF, along with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, launched an official investigation. Despite this, the court found that Matasi deserved a fair hearing and temporarily lifted the suspension while the case is being reviewed.
Following the ruling, Matasi returned to training with his club, Kakamega Homeboyz, and is eligible to play in upcoming fixtures. One of the key matches he could feature in is the MozzartBet Cup round of 16 clash against Shabana FC.
The club’s chairman, Cleophas Shimanyula, confirmed Matasi’s return to the squad and reinstated his salary. Meanwhile, head coach Francis Baraza welcomed the goalkeeper back to training but stopped short of confirming whether Matasi will feature in the matchday squad, noting that his inclusion will depend on fitness and form.
The FKF has acknowledged the court’s decision but is reportedly considering appealing it. A source within the federation emphasized the importance of a full investigation to preserve the integrity of the sport in Kenya.
Matasi, a seasoned goalkeeper with over 35 appearances for the national team since 2017, maintains his innocence. His case has sparked significant debate in Kenyan football circles, highlighting ongoing concerns around match-fixing and the importance of due process and fair representation in such cases.
