Another Kenyan Goalkeeper Ezekiel Owade Caught in Alleged Match Fixing Scandal
Kenyan football finds itself under yet another cloud of controversy as another goalkeeper, Ezekiel Owade, has been implicated in a growing match-fixing crisis that is threatening the integrity of the game. Owade becomes the second high-profile goalkeeper in just over a month to be accused of participating in a scheme to manipulate the outcome of a football match.
This latest development follows closely on the heels of a similar scandal involving former Tusker FC and Harambee Stars goalkeeper, Patrick Matasi. The proximity of these cases has raised serious concerns within the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and among fans about the depth of corruption in the sport.
In late March, Matasi was suspended for three months by the FKF after a video surfaced online allegedly showing him discussing how to influence a match’s result. The clip, which circulated widely on social media, showed the goalkeeper in conversation with an unidentified individual. Their discussion appeared to center on fixing the outcome of a game, presumably for financial gain.
Matasi, however, challenged the suspension in court, arguing that the FKF had acted without following due process. The court ruled in his favor and issued an injunction preventing FKF from enforcing the ban, effectively allowing him to continue his club duties pending further hearings.
Now, just weeks later, the scandal has deepened with fresh allegations against Ezekiel Owade, formerly of Muhoroni Youth FC. The latest accusations come after a video was released by respected sports journalist Kevin Ole Teya on his official X (formerly Twitter) account. In the video, Owade is allegedly heard confirming his participation in a match-fixing plot.
The goalkeeper, speaking directly into the camera, is heard stating, “Hi, Owade here—your keeper. I’m ready for the job over the weekend, to concede two goals by the first half. That is it.” The statement, if verified, indicates deliberate intent to manipulate the outcome of a scheduled match, reigniting widespread outrage within the Kenyan football community.
The video has sparked a flood of reactions across social media platforms. Fans and analysts have expressed disappointment, anger, and concern about the growing trend of fixing in Kenyan football, particularly among players in key positions.
One user, @FelixMotende, didn’t hold back in his criticism, stating, “We saw his face. I don’t believe in punishment—I believe in deliverance from stupidity and mediocrity. Before we ruin the reputation of the good league we are enjoying now, if this guy goes for just six months, it’s not enough. Let him go look for money elsewhere, and let this be a lesson. Please, FKF, act.”
Another commenter, @carlo_too, called attention to the underlying financial challenges that may be pushing players toward unethical behavior: “Instead of fighting the results, let’s deal with the causes—one of them being player salaries and team financial capabilities. Some of these players engage in this vice not for greed but survival.”
Others echoed the sentiment that the problem is systemic. User @eucarmiles simply stated, “Match fixing is rampant in Kenyan football,” while @hotshotcreative added, “Very discouraging to developing talent. It’s most disappointing.” Another user, @mcogingaphelix, offered a grim perspective: “Paper chase. Nobody plays for the badge because that doesn’t settle bills.”
This incident is yet another reminder of the broader challenges facing Kenyan football — challenges that go beyond individual acts of misconduct. Match-fixing is not just a betrayal of fans and clubs; it threatens the legitimacy of the sport and damages the country’s reputation on the international stage.
The FKF now finds itself under increasing pressure to address these issues more decisively. While suspensions and investigations are a start, experts argue that the federation must dig deeper to unearth the root causes of this crisis. Central to this is the need to improve player welfare. Poor salaries, lack of career security, and limited support systems make players vulnerable to exploitation and unethical offers.
Moreover, the current approach to enforcement and discipline appears reactive and inconsistent. The Matasi case, which resulted in a suspension later overturned by the court, exposed weaknesses in the FKF’s disciplinary framework. Without a robust and transparent process grounded in due process, the federation’s actions may be seen as arbitrary and ineffective.
To combat this crisis, FKF may need to partner with law enforcement, international football bodies, and integrity monitoring organizations. Education on sports ethics, improved contract structures, and anonymous reporting systems could also help in discouraging players from participating in illegal schemes.
At the same time, the role of media and fan vigilance cannot be understated. In both recent cases, public exposure played a significant role in prompting action. However, long-term solutions will require more than viral videos and public outrage — they will require systemic reform and a unified commitment to integrity.
Kenyan football has enjoyed remarkable progress in recent years, with improved league competition, rising talent, and renewed fan interest. But these gains remain fragile in the face of corruption. If left unchecked, match-fixing could undo years of hard work and alienate the very fans and sponsors that the sport depends on.
As the Ezekiel Owade case continues to unfold, the football fraternity will be watching FKF’s response closely. What happens next will not only determine the fate of the players involved but could also define the future trajectory of football in Kenya.
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Another Kenyan Goalkeeper Ezekiel Owade Caught in Alleged Match Fixing Scandal
