Zimpapers Logo

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
ZIFA have refuted reports that it forced FC Platinum and Black Rhinos Queens into participating in the 2021/22 men’s and women’s Caf Champions League.

In a statement, Zifa said the decision to participate in the inter-club competitions lies squarely on the clubs’ leadership.

“Zifa does not force its members to participate in inter-club competitions, or even any competition. The decision to participate or turn down the invitation lies with the club’s leadership. That is why Highlanders FC did not participate in the Confederation Cup in 2020 when they had won the Chibuku Super Cup in 2019,” said Zifa.

“The criteria for club’s participation in inter-club competitions is clear for everyone. The champion during the last local competition played before the pandemic represents the country. The decision to participate in the competitions makes great sense to football institutions, and that is why the teams concerned opted to participate. Whatever result they are going to get is part of their long-term vision for their competitions departments.”

This, however, is in sharp contract with what happened in 2011 when Zifa registered Highlanders for the Caf Confederation Cup despite the club clearly stating that it wasn’t prepared to take part in the tournament.

Highlanders were handed a three-year ban from Caf inter-club competitions for not participating after being registered against their will.