Following pitch invasions, violence, and vandalism at a match between Highlanders and Dynamos on Sunday, Zimbabwe’s Premier Soccer League, PSL, has halted all matches till further notice.
The greatest match in Zimbabwean football was called off after incidence of violence at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo included a fan assaulting a referee, perimeter fences being pulled over, and Dynamos fans ripping the net from one of the goals.
The brawls erupted after Highlanders took a 1-0 lead in second-half injury time, with Dynamos appealing a goalie challenge.
Zimbabwe’s domestic top-flight and international football have been suspended as a result of the PSL’s decision, and the country has also been sanctioned by FIFA.
Zimbabwe was suspended by FIFA in February for government meddling in the game’s administration in the country.
Unless the Warriors have their suspension removed two weeks before their opening group match against Liberia on June 9, they will be barred from qualifying for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The game between Highlanders and Dynamos was the second to be called off this season, following a match between FC Platinum and Highlanders in April.
After Highlanders fans swarmed the ground following a disputed penalty ruling, police shot tear gas at them.
On Friday, the PSL plans to meet with Zimbabwe Republic Police, club security staff, marshals, and stadium owners, according to the league.
“We take this opportunity to apologise to all football loving fans, our sponsors and stakeholders. We hope to address these challenges before resuming football matches,” said PSL chief executive Kenny Ndebele.
However, supporters and clubs have voiced their displeasure with the PSL’s decision to halt the competition.
“Why not suspend the culprits or make them play behind closed doors? Suspending the entire league will disadvantage some peace-loving fans and organised teams,” said PSL side Herentals Football Club on Twitter.
Bulawayo Chiefs secretary-general Dumisani Mantula Sibanda told reporters that they “will choose to accept the decisions made by our governing bodies in their endeavours to make the best of our football”.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) says it will investigate the incident.
“It is also imperative to identify the roots of the hooliganism so that we find a lasting solution,” a Zifa statement said.