An investigation has been launched into allegations of match-fixing involving the Cameroon-Kenya clash in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers.
The October 11 fixture, which saw Cameroon secure a 4-1 victory, has come under scrutiny following the emergence of a controversial video implicating Kenyan international goalkeeper Patrick Matasi.
Footage raises concerns over match integrity
A secretly recorded video has surfaced, allegedly showing Matasi discussing a scheme to manipulate a match in exchange for financial compensation.
The 37-year-old, who has earned 26 caps for Kenya and currently plays for Kenya Police FC, is now at the centre of an inquiry led by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
Kenyan Federation responds
In response to the growing controversy, the FKF issued a statement confirming the launch of a formal investigation, in collaboration with FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and other regulatory bodies.
“The FKF defends the integrity of football and has launched a formal investigation, in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities. We reaffirm our zero-tolerance policy on match manipulation and are committed to preserving the credibility of our competition.”
The scandal comes months after Cameroon’s football federation, led by Samuel Eto’o, was previously accused of involvement in domestic match-fixing.
However, the former striker was later cleared of any wrongdoing by CAF.
This latest controversy, however, does not implicate Eto’o or Cameroonian football authorities.
Coaching shake-up and Matasi’s absence
Kenya’s heavy defeat to Cameroon led to the resignation of then-head coach Engin Firat.
Matasi, who started in goal for the match, has not featured for the national team since.
He was omitted from the latest squad by new head coach Benni McCarthy, who oversaw Kenya’s recent 3-3 draw against Gambia and a 2-1 defeat to Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
With the investigation ongoing, the scandal threatens to cast a shadow over Kenya’s footballing reputation as authorities work to determine the extent of any wrongdoing.
Statement on Match Manipulation Allegations pic.twitter.com/d98JCp5HW9
— Football Kenya Federation (@Football_Kenya) March 27, 2025
