FAM cries foul again over kick-off time
Football Association of Malawi (FAM) yesterday lodged another complaint to the world football governing body, Fifa, over the difference in kick-off time of this afternoon’s 2014 World Cup Group F qualifiers involving the Flames and Nigeria.
The Flames host Kenya’s Harambee Stars at Kamuzu Stadium from 2.30pm while Nigeria’s game against Namibia is scheduled to start three hours later at 5.30pm.
FAM chief executive officer Suzgo Nyirenda said the difference in kick-off time has the potential to influence match-fixing.
“By the time Nigeria start their game, ours would have been concluded and we have lodged yet another complaint to Fifa.
“These are crucial qualifying games and we are hoping that Fifa will act accordingly on our concern,” said Nyirenda.
FAM also lodged a similar complaint last Wednesday when the Kenya versus Nigeria game started 30 minutes late.
A loss or draw for the Flames, who so far have six points from four games, will open up a chance for table leaders Nigeria, on eight points, to seal qualification to the final phase, but the Super Eagles must first beat Namibia in Windhoek.
Match commissioner Baba Malephane from Lesotho refused to comment on the issue yesterday.
“Formally, I cannot comment on the game. If the host association has issues then I will include them in the report, but I cannot say anything,” said Malephane at Kamuzu Stadium yesterday.
The referee for today’s encounter is Ade Adelaid from Comoros Islands. He will be assisted by his compatriots Suolaimane Amaldine and Abdolwahid.
