By Goromondo News Sports Reporter
A Central Region Soccer League match between Gwanda Pirates and Shabanie Mine turned into a nightmare when one person was stabbed to death, highlighting the growing challenge of hooliganism in the country.
The match, which was tied 0-0, was abandoned in the 68th minute after violence erupted.
According to reports from Gwanda, the trouble started when Gwanda Pirates player Sianchali elbowed Shabanie’s Edward Tapfuma. Another Shabanie player, Trevor Moyo, allegedly tried to calm the situation, but things quickly escalated. Gwanda Pirates supporters began throwing stones onto the pitch and even poured beer on the match commissioner.
The situation further deteriorated when a Gwanda Pirates fan fired two gunshots into the air.In the chaos, two Shabanie Mine FC fans were stabbed, and one of them succumbed to their injuries.
The incident has brought to light the issues plaguing local football, particularly at the Division One level, where professionalism and security have been lacking. Many matches at this level lack proper medical emergency plans, as required by FIFA, and security is often nonexistent.
This tragic incident may prompt the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) to move quickly and reorganize the structure of division one league. Implementing a national Division One league with a streamlined number of teams could help enforce the necessary standards and ensure a safer environment for players and spectators alike.
