Not only does his action smear the good name of FAM but more importantly puts a dent on the credibility of FAM and its President Sultan Ahmad Shah.
The culprit or culprits should clarify and reveal the truth, for a mere denial of the story below will not help. While not one who wants to accuse anyone of something they may not have done, as the official/s could have been misled by an agent who arranged the match (since FAM is fond of resorting to such means), the truth must prevail.
Con deal?
WAS it really the Zimbabwean national team? Or was it a club side from the African continent? Malaysia hosted “Zimbabwe” in an international friendly, recognised by Fifa, at the Cheras Stadium yesterday.
The hosts won 4-0.
However, checks on various Zimbabwean news portals including The Zimbabwe Independent, NewZimbabwe.com and Zimbabwe Telegraph revealed that the list of 18 players are those of past year’s Zimbabwean league champions Monomotapa United FC. The Harare based team even brought their latest signing Tendai Gwata.
The Herald, in its online report published on July 11, read: “Monomotapa are scheduled to play two friendly matches in Malaysia during their trip.”
This is ahead of their African Champions League clash against Tunisian outfit Etoile du Sahel at Rufaro on July 19. Malaysia are expected to entertain their guests at Shah Alam Stadium tomorrow (5.30pm).
When asked, Monomotapa coach Rodewell Dhlakama, who was registered as the Zimbabwean head coach, claimed: “Yes, I am from Monomotapa but only four players in this team are from the club.”
Zimbabwe have changed their line-up in their previous international matches. Only two names, Charles Chiutsa and Asani Nhongo have seen action against Oman and Jordan respectively. National coach K. Raja-gobal, however, kept mum over the subject.
“I was told that this is the Zimbabwean national team. I will need to check on this and only then I can speak my mind over the matter,” said Rajagobal. “They should play well. They are representing their nation after all.”
