Patrick Matasi mistakes

Investigations have been launched into a series of goalkeeping blunders that have raised suspicions of match-fixing involving Patrick Matasi. A leaked video allegedly showing discussions between Matasi and a match-fixing agent has intensified scrutiny over his past performances.

Once regarded as one of the best shot-stoppers in the CECAFA region, Matasi has made several high-profile errors in crucial matches, prompting debates over whether these mistakes were genuine lapses or signs of something more concerning. Here are five of the most infamous blunders that have fueled speculation.

5. Kenya vs. Senegal – (AFCON 2019) In the final group-stage match of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Kenya faced a formidable Senegalese attack led by Sadio Mané. Matasi needed to be at his best but instead delivered an unconvincing performance. Kenya held firm in the first half, but Matasi’s misjudgment of a routine cross allowed Mané to score effortlessly. His sluggish reaction and poor positioning left fans in disbelief as Senegal secured a 3-0 victory. One of the most glaring moments came when he appeared completely unprepared for Mané’s second goal, failing to react to what seemed like a straightforward strike.
6. Kenya vs. DR Congo – (2019) Before AFCON 2019, Kenya played a friendly against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Everything was going well after Michael Olunga’s goal put Kenya ahead, but with just four minutes remaining, Matasi gifted DR Congo an equalizer in one of his most embarrassing mistakes. A weak free-kick from Arthur Masuaku rolled toward him, yet instead of making a routine save, Matasi allowed the ball to slip through his legs. Despite making a crucial penalty save earlier in the match, this late error overshadowed his performance and reignited concerns about his ability to stay focused for a full 90 minutes.
7. Ghana vs. Kenya – (AFCON 2019) In Kenya’s final AFCON 2019 group qualifier against Ghana, the team was moments away from securing a valuable draw. With the score at 0-0 and just seven minutes remaining, Caleb Ekuban’s harmless shot slipped through Matasi’s arms and into the net, handing Ghana a 1-0 victory. Kenya’s strong defensive display was undone by this inexplicable mistake, which also cost the team a chance to finish top of the group.
8. Cameroon vs. Kenya – (AFCON Qualifier, 2024) During the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, Matasi endured a nightmare outing against Cameroon. The match started poorly when he failed to save Vincent Aboubakar’s penalty, but his performance deteriorated further. In the 39th minute, Martin Hongla fired a routine shot toward goal, which Matasi inexplicably allowed to slip past him, giving Cameroon a 2-0 lead. Shortly after, Bryan Mbeumo capitalized on a low cross that Matasi failed to anticipate. His sluggish reactions also contributed to Christian Bassogog scoring Cameroon’s fourth goal, culminating in a humiliating 4-1 defeat for Kenya. Calls grew louder for his removal from the national team.
9. Iran vs. Kenya – (2023) The most controversial mistake of all came in a friendly against Iran. With the score tied at 1-1 late in the game, Iran sent a weak shot toward goal—one that any professional goalkeeper should have saved easily. However, Matasi fumbled the ball, allowing it to slip through his hands and into the net, gifting Iran a 2-1 victory. This costly error sparked immediate outrage, with many questioning why he continued to receive national team call-ups despite his history of crucial mistakes.