The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has issued a statement addressing the recent logistical challenges faced by a group of stranded football fans who travelled to South Africa to support the Mighty Warriors in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifier against Angola.
After the match, the fans embarked on their journey from Simba Bhora Football Club and found themselves stranded in Pretoria. While ZIFA expressed sympathy for their situation, the association firmly distanced itself from any travel arrangements or logistics involvement.
ZIFA’s Official Statement On Stranded Fans
In a statement released on Wednesday night, ZIFA acknowledged the dedication of the fans who traveled to support the Mighty Warriors. However, the association emphasized that it played no role in organizing their trip. The statement read:
“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is deeply concerned about the well-being of Zimbabwean fans currently in Pretoria and acknowledges reports circulating on social media regarding their situation. While we empathize with their plight and appreciate their unwavering support for the Mighty Warriors, we must also address the misinformation surrounding this matter.”
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ZIFA went on to clarify that the fans had independently coordinated their travel plans and liaised directly with transport providers. The association reiterated that it was not responsible for any aspect of their journey, including financing or logistics.
Fans’ Plight and Misinformation
The fans, who traveled by bus from Simba Bhora Football Club, were left stranded in Pretoria after the match. Reports on social media highlighted their difficulties, prompting ZIFA to address the situation. While the association expressed regret over the challenges faced by the supporters, it urged them to engage directly with their transport providers to resolve the issue.
ZIFA’s statement continued:
“ZIFA wishes to categorically state that it was never responsible for the travel arrangements or logistics for these supporters. The fans in question made their own travel plans and liaised directly with the transport providers who facilitated their journey to Pretoria. At no point was ZIFA involved in coordinating or financing their trip. While we regret the difficulties they are facing, we urge all affected individuals to engage directly with their transport providers for a resolution.”
ZIFA’s Commitment to Zimbabwean Football
Despite the unfortunate situation, ZIFA reaffirmed its commitment to the growth and development of football in Zimbabwe. The association emphasized its focus on promoting and managing the sport, ensuring that national teams like the Mighty Warriors receive the necessary support and preparation for international competitions.
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The statement concluded:
“ZIFA remains committed to the growth and development of Zimbabwean football and values the passion of our supporters. We will continue to focus on our mandate of promoting and managing football in Zimbabwe, ensuring that our national teams are well-prepared and supported.”
