By James Robert Kayindi
Following media reports, the Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) has finally come forward to confirm its petition to CAF over four Zambian players suspected to be overage.
“It’s true we did lodge a complaint and we await the ruling on the matter from CAF,” revealed FUFA Spokesperson Ahmed Hussein according to Kawowo. He further remarked that Changwe Kalale, Patson Daka (scored in the first leg tie and also plays in Zambia’s top flight with Nchanga Rangers), Pumulo Siwanga and Enock Mwepu are the players in doubt over their age.
Following earlier petitions from different countries, Gambia and Benin were suspended from the campaign over the use of overage players therefore should Zambia be convicted by CAF over the same issue, they will not be spared from a suspension as stated in article 33 clause 11 of the regulations of the competition.
“For any administrative error in the matter of the players’ registration or date of birth without deliberate intention, the concerned association shall be suspended for two years from all the age category competitions of CAF,” states article 37 of the CAF constitution.
Uganda was slapped with a similar ban way back in 2007 when they used overaged Ivan Ntege. Uganda’s suspension from participation followed a petition to CAF by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), Zambia’s football governing body.
However until CAF makes its ruling over the matter, all teams will continue with their preparations for the second leg tie that is scheduled for 27th September 2014 at Namboole stadium. Zambia lead Uganda by 2-0 as of the first leg and the leader on aggregate after both legs will qualify for Niger.
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