The President of Football Kenya Federation, Nick Mwendwa, has disclosed to Soka25east that his administration will officially write a letter to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over what he described as “biased” officiating against Harambee Stars.
“It was horrendous, to say the least. The ref was aggressive towards our players and in many instances, gave away free kicks to our opponents unjustly,” FKF boss told Soka25east adding that his boys were equally very upset.
“The boys went out there and gave their all in very unfair conditions. I feel it’s in bad taste that people are saying that should have won anyway. I feel I have to protect them,” the President said.
The Leone Stars got off to a winning start defeating the Harambee Stars of Kenya 2-1 in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Group F first leg qualifying tie in Freetown last Saturday. The victory was coach John Keister’s his first win in charge of the National team.
Goals from Julius Wobay and Umaru Bangura in the 22nd and 69th minutes respectively were enough to down their visitors. Kenya’s Michael Olunga scored their only goal in the 76th minutes despite playing with a man down.
However, although it will be insignificant as CAF will not be overturning the result or punishing the match officials, the FKF boss believes the letter will act as an eye opener for other matches across Africa.
“We want Africa to know that we were not pleased with the level of officiating in the match, and for future reference, we believe that filing a formal protest is well in order.”
Nigerian officials led by centre referee Ferdinand Aniette, first assistant referee Tejiri, second assistant referee Abdulmajeed Olaide and reserve referee Ekabatiem Ekabatiem were in charge of the group F tie in Freetwon.
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