Harambee Stars and Tusker FC goalkeeper Patrick Matasi has recounted his near-death experience in 2021.
Matasi and his family, in 2021, survived a scary road accident, a few months after the family members were poisoned.
Matasi in Tusker’s February monthly magazine edition revealed that his family escaped death in the poisoning incident while playing for the Ethiopian side St. George in March 2021.
Also Read: Celebrated Kenyan Footballers Who Never Played in The Premier League
Three months later after that incident, Matasi escaped the jaws of death alongside his wife and son after they were involved in a grisly road accident at Lessos along the Kapsabet-Nakuru road on June 1.
His wife and son underwent surgery while the goalkeeper was incapacitated for a month as he battled with both mental and physical challenges.
“By the grace of God, they were not adversely affected after they were poisoned. In June, we had a nasty accident on our way to Nairobi but we survived though with massive injuries.
“I am still young but what I saw in 2021 was too much for my age. It was a tough year for me to be honest but now looking back and seeing my family all back on their feet is the biggest blessing to my life. I look back and count it all as a testimony. When you go through tough moments, they define your character as a man and make you stronger,” Matasi noted.
Matasi expressed his gratitude to Tusker FC for being understanding after they signed him back to allow him to be closer with his family.
“I thank Tusker for having given me the opportunity to come back and redeem myself on the pitch. They were very patient with me even when I had to deal with so much, including the recovery from the accident. I also had to take care of my wife and son who were hospitalised.
“I have learnt about the value of friendship. Sometimes in tough situations that is when you know who your real ones are. I thank everyone who stood by me during that period. I have also learnt to be stronger as a person. During this period, I was strong for myself, for my wife and sons. I have also learnt to be a positive thinker in all circumstances,” Matasi added.
Currently, Matasi is enjoying his time at Tusker having nine clean sheets in 11 matches in the 2021/2022 Kenya Premier League.
Also Read: Michael Olunga: From Trekking to Stadiums to Ksh60 Million Monthly Salary