Breaking News: FAZ Suspends Referee Israel Chikumbi for Disallowed Goal
Breaking News: FAZ Suspends Referee Israel Chikumbi for Disallowed Goal
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has officially suspended referee Israel Chikumbi following a controversial disallowed goal for Kabwe Warriors in their week 17 fixture against FC Muza at Godfrey Ucar Chitalu Stadium in Kabwe.
Chikumbi’s suspension comes in the wake of a questionable offside call that denied Kabwe Warriors a clear goal scored by Godfrey Binga. The decision sparked widespread criticism on social media, with Zambian football fans expressing their frustration with the increasing prevalence of poor officiating in the Super League.
Binga’s goal was disallowed after he pounced on a loose ball following a save by the FC Muza goalkeeper. Replays seemed to indicate that Binga was onside when he scored, as he came from an onside position when the initial saves were made.
This incident has fueled existing accusations of match-fixing among some sections of Zambian football fans who are concerned about the manner in which matches are being officiated. In response to these concerns, FAZ has formed a Referees Commission, consisting of experienced match officials. The commission’s mandate is to assess and deliberate on issues surrounding officiating in the country, with the goal of improving standards and restoring confidence in the league.
