This archive report was first published on 2 July 2019.
Patrick Matasi, the Harambee Stars goalkeeper, has been making headlines in Kenya after his impressive performance against Senegal on Monday night. The match, which took place on June 30, 2019, saw Matasi save a crucial penalty in the first half, giving his team hope of a favorable outcome.
Matasi, who plays for Ethiopia's St George's club, has a reputation for being a skilled penalty saver. In fact, prior to the continental tournament, Kenyans had expressed their trust in Matasi whenever Kenya conceded a penalty. However, Matasi had refuted their hopes, stating that he could not guarantee their safety when it came to penalties.
Matasi's skills in penalty saving were on full display during the 2017 CECAFA finals between Kenya and Zanzibar. He saved three penalties, helping Harambee Stars lift the trophy for the seventh time. Matasi's performance in the match against Senegal was a testament to his exceptional skills in penalty saving.
As Harambee Stars still have a chance of making it to the round of 16, Matasi might be called upon to save the team once again. Coach Sebastien Migne knows that Stars have a bigger chance of winning a match on penalties with Matasi in goal.
Matasi's experience in penalty saving dates back to his time at Posta Rangers, where he was trained by coach Zico Otieno. He has also studied the techniques of Senegal's Sadio Mane, which helped him save the first penalty but unfortunately not the second.
