Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere [email protected]
ZIMBABWEAN football has once again been plunged into controversy after violent scenes forced the abandonment of a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash between Hardrock FC and Dynamos at Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe on Sunday.
The abandoned encounter has triggered outrage across the local football fraternity, with the Zimbabwe Football Association strongly condemning the ugly incidents that disrupted the highly anticipated match.
In a statement released on Monday, ZIFA described the violence and misconduct as a serious threat to the image and progress of Zimbabwean football.
“Football must remain a safe, family-friendly and unifying space for players, officials, supporters, partners and all stakeholders,” read part of the statement.
The association backed the Premier Soccer League’s decision to wait for official reports from match officials and the clubs before taking disciplinary action against those responsible for the disturbances.
The chaotic scenes at Chahwanda Stadium left supporters stunned, with fears growing over rising crowd trouble at local football matches.
ZIFA warned that violence has no place in the game and urged supporters to rally behind their teams peacefully while reminding clubs of their responsibility to maintain order and security at stadiums.
“The progress being made to rebuild confidence in the national game must be protected,” the association said while appealing for calm as investigations continue.
The football mother body also pledged to continue working with the PSL, clubs and security authorities to improve matchday safety and restore confidence in local football.
The abandoned fixture is now expected to be the subject of intense disciplinary scrutiny as the nation awaits the PSL’s final ruling.
@FungaiMuderere
derick.khumalo