The match, already a tight affair with limited scoring opportunities, reached a boiling point in the 82nd minute. Following a challenge on MUZA striker Andrew Phiri, referee Leonard Akapelwa awarded a penalty, much to the dismay of Nkwazi players and staff.
Vowing their disapproval, Nkwazi players contested the decision like their lives depended on it, engaging in a lengthy on-field debate with the referee. Unable to sway Akapelwa, the Nkwazi team ultimately took the drastic step of walking off the pitch, effectively abandoning the match.
Both coaches, MUZA’s Mathews Ndhlovu and Nkwazi’s Dennis Makinka, chose to remain tight-lipped, opting to wait for the official verdict from the Football Association of Zambia’s disciplinary committee.
This unsavory incident overshadows what was, up to that point, a fairly balanced contest. Both teams struggled to convert their limited chances, leaving the scoreline blank at the time of the walkout.”
“Iwe Chi Kasanda”
Adding to the disappointment, reports emerged of an altercation where a MUZA player allegedly damaged the phone of Nkwazi’s media officer, Jeff Mwape, who was documenting the protest.
The ramifications of this incident are yet to unfold. Nkwazi face a potential forfeit and disciplinary action, while the behavior of individual players also warrants investigation.
Hopefully, a swift and fair resolution from the FAZ can help put this episode behind us and ensure competitive integrity remains at the forefront of the Zambian Super League.
Three things the clubs, players and coaches should note:
1. Maintaining Composure
Nkwazi’s walkout, while fueled by frustration, may ultimately come to hurt them. There are established channels to contest referee decisions, and abandoning the pitch sets a poor precedent and throws sportsmanship out the window.
2. Respecting the Referee’s Call:
While referees can make mistakes, they are the ultimate authority on the pitch! Everyone knows that. It’s high time clubs voice their dissent within the rules of the game and trust that the FAZ disciplinary committee to handle post-match disputes appropriately.
FAZ on the other hand should be seen to be punishing erring referees.
3. Importance of Sportsmanship:
Football is a competitive sport, but it thrives on mutual respect between players, coaches, and officials. This incident serves as a reminder that upholding good sportsmanship is vital to maintaining the integrity and enjoyment of the game.
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