Eddie Chikamhi
Zimpapers Sports Hub
WARRIORS super fan, Chris “Romario” Musekiwa, has called for the prosecution of the hooligans who invaded the pitch at the National Sports Stadium last week.
CAF have ordered the next matches, under their jurisdiction, to be played behind closed doors at the giant stadium, until further notice. Sources said the ban is set to also affect the next home matches of the Mighty Warriors, the Young Warriors and Scottland in the CAF Champions League.
“Pitch invasion culprits should be brought to book and punished severely,” said Musekiwa.
“Video evidence can be used to identify the overzealous individuals, some of whom were captured vandalising the stadium’s irrigation system. Those unruly elements can be banned from our stadia.
“In future international matches ZIFA needs to enforce CAF compliant measures and have CAF certified security officers working with stewards like we saw at the Under-23 match against Mauritius, there were adequate marshals who ensured no fan would invade the pitch.”
ZIFA will also feel the pinch in the pocket as they require not less than US$200,000 to host a match. A source said: “Basically, CAF are saying given the seriousness of the incidents and CAF’s commitment to ensure the highest standards of safety and security for national teams and clubs participating in sanctioned competitions, the organisation has taken immediate review of Zimbabwe’s home matches and safety and security protocols as a precautionary measure.
“As a result, CAF have temporarily suspended spectators’ access to CAF sanctioned matches in Zimbabwe until further notice. This means, all subsequent matches during this period should be played behind closed doors. The purpose of this measure is to provide ZIFA with time to review the existing safety and security measures aimed at safeguarding players, officials, stakeholders and the wellbeing of all participants,” the source added.
Joseph Mutawu, president of the Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association said they have received the news “with heavy hearts”.
“Let me be unequivocal, this sanction is a painful blow, not just to ZIFA or the Warriors, but to every Zimbabwean who has waited years to see our national team play in front of a home crowd at the refurbished National Sports Stadium,” Matawu said.
“As the body representing Zimbabwe’s football supporters, we cannot and will not run away from our share of the responsibility. The pitch invasion was carried out by persons who claim to love this game.
“Their actions have cost all of us the right to be in the stands for our next home fixture,” said Matawu.
Staunch football fan, Tendai “T-Burns” Zhakata said the CAF decision was crippling. “To play in empty stadiums, especially after the lifting of that ban and getting certification to play again in Zimbabwe, it’s a very and sorrowful experience.” said Zhakata.
