ZIFA suspends three match officials for four fixtures

Zimbabwean football authorities, ZIFA, have suspended three match officials from handling their next four consecutive top-flight league fixtures.

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) confirmed the suspensions in a statement, citing dissatisfaction with the officials’ recent “below-par performances.”

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The disciplinary action involves referee Nelson Meke and his assistants, Taurai Muranganwa and Mncedisi Maphosa.

“The suspensions follow their performance in the Bulawayo Chiefs versus Dynamos FC match played at Barbourfields Stadium on 19 March 2026, which was reported by the Match Commissioner as not meeting the expected standard,” the statement read.

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According to ZIFA, the trio failed to execute their duties effectively during the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) encounter.

“The officials were found to have contravened paragraph 21 of the Referees Code of Conduct. ZIFA remains committed to maintaining high standards of officiating, professionalism, and accountability in Zimbabwean football,” the association added.

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Despite the officiating controversy, the visiting Dynamos secured a 2-0 victory, courtesy of goals from Jairos Kasondo and Frank Agyemang.

This is not the first time ZIFA has taken a hardline stance on officiating. Last season, the association banned referee Owen Manenda following his questionable handling of a Castle Lager PSL derby between Dynamos FC and CAPS United in June 2025.

During the same campaign, referee Lloyd Mapanje was also sanctioned for an unsatisfactory performance in an elite league match between Dynamos FC and Yadah at Rufaro Stadium in Harare.