Kakamega Homeboyz are facing a major dilemma following a warning not to field their experienced goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, despite the High Court lifting the 90-day suspension imposed by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) over match-fixing allegations.
Matasi, a veteran shot-stopper and former Harambee Stars first-choice goalkeeper, was suspended for 90 days as investigations commenced into his alleged involvement in match manipulation. The suspension followed the circulation of an undated online video that appeared to capture Matasi in conversation with an unidentified person, allegedly plotting to fix a match. In the footage, the goalkeeper seemingly receives instructions to concede goals in return for an undisclosed payment.
Following the suspension, Matasi took the legal route and successfully obtained a stay order from the High Court. The ruling technically cleared him to return to the pitch, overturning FKF’s earlier decision. However, this legal victory has not silenced the concerns surrounding his return.
Kakamega Homeboyz have since been advised to act cautiously regarding Matasi’s participation in upcoming fixtures. The club now finds itself at a crossroads—torn between standing by their player and avoiding a potential media storm and public backlash.
Legal and football experts have warned that if Matasi returns to action, his performance on the field will be subjected to heightened scrutiny. Every save, slip, or missed opportunity may be viewed with suspicion, regardless of intent. The situation, therefore, presents a reputational risk not just for the player, but for the club and the entire league.
Observers argue that while Matasi may legally be allowed to play, the nature of the allegations and the intensity of public interest make his return controversial. The concern is that even the most routine errors could be misconstrued as deliberate, which could further damage the integrity of the game.
The broader issue, however, lies in how such sensitive cases are being handled. Critics have pointed out that the FKF may not possess the technical expertise or resources required to conduct thorough investigations into complex match-fixing schemes. Match manipulation often involves cross-border syndicates and digital footprints that require advanced investigative tools.
There is growing consensus that if allegations extend beyond local matches or FKF’s jurisdiction, the matter should be escalated to FIFA. As the global governing body, FIFA has the reach and resources needed to undertake comprehensive investigations, especially when evidence remains inconclusive or tampered with.
Meanwhile, Kakamega Homeboyz remain in a strong position competitively. They sit sixth on the league table with 38 points and have ambitions of climbing further. Whether they will risk reintegrating Matasi into the squad amid the storm remains to be seen.
The situation poses a broader question on how Kenyan football institutions manage issues of integrity, justice, and player welfare. Clubs must balance their competitive needs with the ethical and public relations implications of their decisions. For Matasi, the path to restoring his reputation is uncertain, and the next steps taken by the club will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome.
