Highlanders await Fifa’s ban reversal

Lovemore Dube

HIGHLANDERS have been kept waiting over their appeal to have a transfer ban reversed by Fifa after settling their debt with former coaches Baltemar Brito and his assistant, Antonio Joao Torres.

What could clear the path is that Torres has gone on social media to confirm that they have been paid and paid tribute to the benefactor, Harare-based businessman, Wicknell Chivhayo.

He cleared the debt for Highlanders to save the situation a fortnight ago.

Bosso were suspended by Fifa after they failed to pay the duo US$27,000 owed in allowances and winning bonuses from their 2022-23 stint with the club.

The transfer ban came at a bad time when the club had just lost Peter Muduhwa, Lynoth Chikuhwa, Godfrey Makaruse and Marvelous Chigumira. The quartet joined Premier Soccer League side Scottland.

Lynoth Chikuhwa

Highlanders were without their new signings and returnee, Never Rauzhi.

Zifa confirmed that Highlanders had appealed against the ban after paying. They said it was now up to Fifa to lift the ban following Chivhayo’s intervention.

“Highlanders appealed directly to Fifa on the portal that they have been communicating on. We are not involved at all as Zifa.

“The onus is on them and Fifa and as an association we hope they get the ban lifted and be able to engage in transfer business before the window closes,” said Zifa.

Zifa disclosed that the transfer window will close on March 31.

“Our prayers are that they will be able to make business before the window closes on 31 March.

After that, they will not be able to do so until the next transfer window. Basically, the matter is between them and Fifa and we confirm that Highlanders have engaged Fifa directly,” said Zifa.

Highlanders are under pressure to strengthen their team which started with a loss at MWOS’ home at Baobab Stadium in Ngezi.

A howler by goalkeeper, Raphael Pitisi, who tried fancy stuff against a MWOS striker only to come out second best, resulting in the solitary goal, was enough to decide the destiny of the three points.

Bosso will be at home against new league boys Kwekwe United this weekend.

Highlanders’ spokesperson Nozibelo Maphosa confirmed that the ban was yet to be lifted by Fifa.