In a scathing critique, Sierra Leonean journalist, Umaru Fofana, reporting for the BBC, has lambasted FIFA and CAF for the lack of accessibility to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers for Africa.
Expressing disappointment, Fofana revealed that he had to embark on a journey to Liberia to witness Sierra Leone’s home fixture against Egypt.
Highlighting the absence of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in African matches, Fofana argued that if VAR had been implemented, crucial decisions could have altered the course of the game.
He asserted that a potential penalty, the rescinding of a red card against Sierra Leone, and a disputed goal could have been resolved with VAR. Fofana also suggested that an Egyptian player might have been sent off, altering the outcome.
In his frustration, Fofana lamented the financial burden incurred by fans, questioning why Africans are seemingly treated disrespectfully by CAF and FIFA.
“All in all Sierra Leone would not have lost that match yesterday and I would have saved some money by watching it on a more accessible tv channel instead of going to Monrovia to do so.
Why are Africans treated so disrespectfully by CAF/FIFA!?”
The controversy surrounding the match raises concerns about the fairness and standards of officiating in African football.
