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Ex-Harambee Stars trainer speaks out after goalies accused of match-fixing
26th January, 2026 03:36 PM
Former Harambee Stars goalkeeping coach Abdul Iddi Salim has cautioned against unverified match-fixing claims targeting goalkeepers in the Kenyan Premier League.
Speaking on Monday, January 26, 2026, on the match-fixing debate linking active goalkeepers to the worrying menace that is sending shockwaves in Kenya’s football ecosystem, the former Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards goalkeepers trainer has warned that unproven match-fixing reports with goalkeepers at the centre of it all could paint the position of play in a bad light whenever they make mistakes in the game.
The gaffer says goalkeepers’ stellar performances and positive moments should be appreciated and highlighted, just as they are quickly crucified when blunders happen between the sticks.
Mistakes happen!
“We should not condemn players when mistakes happen, just as we praise them when they do well. Goalkeepers have off days just like in any profession, and mistakes are part of the game. Let’s keep supporting these players,” he said.
Salim’s sentiments come against the backdrop of sharp criticism aimed at Shabana FC goalkeeper Stephen Ochieng, who conceded three goals against APS Bomet on Saturday, January 25, 2026, at Kericho Green Stadium, allowing the law enforcers to force a 3-3 draw afterthe Galmour Boys had taken a healthy 3-1 lead in the crunchy FKF Premier League action.
Salim has also come to Oching’s defence, who has been facing the wrath of angry Shabana FC fans, questioning the manner in which he conceded two goals within a short span to allow APS come back into the game.
“The Shabana keeper, for instance, has been doing well. He makes one mistake, and suddenly everyone wants his head. We are not building these keepers, we are destroying their self-belief, and things will only get worse,” he added.
Curbing the menace
Meanwhile, Football Kenya Federation (FKF), in partnership with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), held a two-day integrity workshop in Nairobi to strengthen efforts against match-fixing and reinforce good governance in football in August 2025.
The program brought together CEOs from FKF Premier League clubs and wrapped up on Thursday, August 21, 2025, with participation from elite referees.
The training sessions were led by Sacré Guébaé, CAF’s Legal & Integrity Manager, alongside FKF’s Legal and Integrity Officer, Dennis Gicheru. Reaffirming the federation’s commitment to curb match manipulation vices, insisted the habit is not going to get a breeding ground in Kenyan football.
“The Federation is very keen to streamline integrity matters in Kenyan football. Match manipulation is an issue we are not taking lightly, and it was important to have this discussion with FKFPL CEOs and referees,” Gicheru said.
He further noted that he extended his gratitude to CAF for their commitment to eradicating match-fixing in Kenya: “We extend our gratitude to CAF for partnering with us for this workshop, and in particular, their integrity department for their continuous support as we work to strengthen our internal capacity in matters of integrity.” He added.
Meanwhile, both active and retired footballers have linked the match-fixing menace to financial constraints bedevilling most FKF Premier League and lower leagues clubs.
