Avram Grant Requests CAF to Probe Beninese Referee’s Decisions

Avram Grant Requests CAF to Probe Beninese Referee’s Decisions

Zambia’s head coach, Avram Grant, has stirred controversy by urging the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to investigate the officiating decisions made by Beninese referee Djindo Louis Houngnandande in Zambia’s 1-1 draw against Tanzania.

The source of the controversy lies in a 44th-minute incident where Zambia’s captain, Rodrick Kabwe, received a second yellow card for a challenge on a Tanzanian player. Grant, known for his forthright opinions, expressed his displeasure in the post-match assessment.

“I am disappointed with the result,” Grant declared emphatically. “The red card to Rodrick Kabwe is not a red card.” He went on to assert that the referee’s decision significantly influenced the match’s outcome, stating, “It was difficult to fight with ten players. We can’t fight the referee, but we can fight on the pitch. But I think the referee decided the game. The result was on him.”

Given Grant’s standing in African football and his reputation for thorough preparation, his accusations that the referee tilted the match in Tanzania’s favor are likely to resonate across the continent.

Replays of the incident suggest that Kabwe‘s challenge for the ball was a legitimate attempt within the boundaries of fair play. However, the referee’s interpretation led to Kabwe’s expulsion and Grant’s subsequent strong reaction.

The outcome of Grant’s request for a CAF investigation into the referee’s decisions remains uncertain and will be closely watched in the football community.