The Soccer Kenya Federation (FKF) has launched a proper investigation into critical match-fixing allegations regarding veteran goalkeeper Patrick Matasi.
The 37-year-old shot-stopper, at present with Kenyan Premier League facet Kakamega Homeboyz and holder of over 30 worldwide caps, faces scrutiny after an unverified video surfaced on-line.
The controversial footage, which BBC Sport Africa has not independently authenticated, seems to point out Matasi engaged in discussions about influencing a league match consequence.
His most up-to-date nationwide workforce look was throughout Kenya’s October 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
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Kakamega Homeboyz proprietor Cleophas Shimanyula revealed he has personally mentioned the allegations with Matasi, stating:
I’ve spoken with him, and he was equally shocked by what he noticed within the video. He insists he’s unaware of any match-fixing.
The FKF has dedicated to an intensive inquiry in collaboration with international and continental soccer authorities.
In an official assertion, the federation emphasised:
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We uphold a zero-tolerance coverage in the direction of match manipulation and stay dedicated to sustaining the integrity of our competitions.
The investigation will proceed below each FKF’s anti-match manipulation protocols and FIFA tips, with assurances of full transparency and due course of.
The federation has pledged to respect all events’ rights whereas vowing applicable motion primarily based on findings.
Efficiency document cited in participant’s defence
Shimanyula highlighted Matasi’s on-field contributions since becoming a member of the membership, noting three consecutive clear sheets in latest matches.
He asserted, whereas acknowledging the potential for video manipulation.
Once we watched this video, we discovered that Matasi has not wronged the membership.
The membership proprietor maintained they might proceed fielding Matasi until offered with concrete proof, stating:
He’ll maintain enjoying for us as a result of there is not any wrongdoing on his half so far as we’re involved – until there’s proof or the FKF writes to us to say they’re suspecting the participant of some wrongdoing.
Attraction for proof and whistleblower safety
Each FKF and Kakamega Homeboyz have known as for any substantiating proof to be submitted confidentially.
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Shimanyula referenced the membership’s earlier actions in opposition to match-fixing, saying: “
Previously we have reported match-fixing relating to a few of our gamers who fastened a sport with the coach, and punishments have been handed down by FIFA.”
The membership maintains its personal monitoring methods however has challenged critics to offer proof, with Shimanyula declaring:
As Kakamega Homeboyz, we’re asking anybody who has proof of Matasi fixing a sport to convey it ahead.
The soccer neighborhood awaits additional developments as this high-profile investigation progresses.
