Some fans threw objects on the running track during the match between Zambia and Congo Brazzaville at the Levy Mwanawansa stadium in Ndola in protest of the referee’s decision.
With Zambia trailing by 1-2 in the first half, Al Fayha striker Fashion Sakala scored a brilliant goal, but the second assistant referee ruled it offside. This infuriated the fans, who began throwing objects onto the pitch.
The pattern repeated almost every time the referee’s decisions went against the Chipolopolo, who went on to win the match 4-2.
However, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) says it is disappointed with the unruly fans.
“A big congratulations to the boys for making the nation smile. We must also give credit to the fans. The atmosphere was incredibly electric, with the boys reciprocating the support with a deserved win,” FAZ president Andrew Kamanga has said in his weekly President’s Corner column.
He added, “We did, however, note a few unsavoury incidences spurred by unruly fans whose behaviour fell short of the requisite FIFA standards. We have repeatedly appealed to fans to avoid celebrating goals or protesting decisions or performances by throwing missiles. Apart from the bad image it gives our games, there is always the risk of sanctions that could draw a huge fine.”
Kamanga has also revealed that the association is now looking to start using CCTV cameras to sort out unruly fans at the stadiums.
“We will be exercising the option of using the CCTV cameras installed in the stadium to identify the instigators of these unfortunate incidences. As a country that aspires to host international tournaments of the magnitude of the Africa Cup of Nations, it will be prudent to embrace good supporter practices at Stadia,’ stated Kamanga.
