Matasi: Clean sheet at the group stage will be key to our progress

Harambee stars goalkeeper Patrick Matasi says keeping a clean sheet in the group stage matches will be key for them progressing to the next round of the African Cup of Nations.

Stars are boasting of solid defence from the qualifiers, where they conceded three goals in five matches and Matasi is hoping to extend this form to Egypt when they start their campaign on Sunday against Algeria at 11 pm

“It’s important that we keep a clean sheet in the group stage matches because you never know what might happen at the end now that three teams can qualify past the group stages.

I am determined to give my best in each opportunity that I will get to represent my country and that is the spirit in the camp.

We might be underdogs but we are determined to prove our doubters wrong when the games begin,” said Matasi.

Matasi came under criticism on Saturday after his schoolboy error allowed DR Congo to force a 1-1 draw against Kenya in a friendly but he is determined to make up for the mistake when the continental showpiece kicks off.

“It’s not any goalkeepers wish to make mistakes but this is football anything can happen I want to promise Kenyans that I will give everything to make my county proud and help the team go as far as possible,” added Matasi.

Matasi has largely been Sebastian Migne stopper of choice since being appointed Kenya boss in May 2018, and ought to be the national side’s Number One when they take to the field in their first match against Algeria.

The St. Georges SC custodian is confident he has what it takes to put on a good show during the tournament and is eager to go up against some of Africa’s finest.

Stars are expected to fly to Egypt on Tuesday after concluding three-week training camp in France.