Zimbabwe Denied by Controversial Offside Call in AFCON Qualifier Against Cameroon
Sports Reporter | ZimEye | In a match filled with drama and controversy, Zimbabwe suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Cameroon in their AFCON qualifier. However, the result has been overshadowed by a highly contentious decision by the referee to disallow a Zimbabwean goal for offside, leaving fans and officials outraged.
The Controversial Incident
The incident in question occurred in a crucial moment of the second half when Zimbabwe appeared to score a legitimate equalizer. Tinashe Dzvukamanja found the back of the net, sparking celebrations, only for the assistant referee to raise the flag, ruling the goal offside.

Photographic evidence and post-match analysis suggest that Dzvukamanja was clearly onside when the ball was played, with Cameroon’s defenders playing him on. The decision has since been labeled as a glaring error that may have cost Zimbabwe valuable points.
Fans and Analysts React
Outrage erupted online, with Zimbabwean fans sharing screenshots and videos of the disallowed goal. One fan posted: “How can this be offside? The evidence is clear!” Others accused the refereeing team of bias, calling the decision a blatant injustice.
Archie Muganhu, a fan on social media, commented: “This was daylight robbery. We played well, and our goal was taken away unfairly.”
ZIFA Demands an Investigation
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has been urged to:
1. File a Formal Protest: ZIFA must demand an investigation into the officiating, particularly the disallowed goal.
2. Seek Clarity from CAF: A review of the refereeing decisions should be requested to ensure accountability.
3. Push for Fairer Officiating in Future Matches: This incident highlights the need for improved officiating standards in AFCON qualifiers.
The Impact on Zimbabwe
The disallowed goal proved to be a turning point in the match, robbing Zimbabwe of a potential draw. Despite a strong performance, including a well-taken goal by Dzvukamanja, the team was left to rue missed opportunities and questionable officiating.
Marvelous Nakamba, Zimbabwe’s captain, had a standout performance with an 8.0 rating, leading from midfield, but even his efforts couldn’t overturn the referee’s decision.
What’s Next?
As Zimbabwe seeks to recover from this setback, the team and its fans are calling for fairness and accountability. The controversial decision has not only raised questions about the referee’s competence but also underscored the need for VAR technology in such critical matches.
With their AFCON qualification hopes still alive, Zimbabwe must regroup and focus on their upcoming fixtures. However, the lingering controversy over the disallowed goal will continue to be a talking point for weeks to come.
Final Word
This match serves as a painful reminder of the fine margins in football and the devastating impact of poor officiating. ZIFA must act decisively to ensure Zimbabwe’s hard-fought efforts are not undermined by such errors in the future.
There have been instances where FIFA has been involved in reviewing and, in rare cases, overturning match results following formal protests. However, such decisions are exceptional and typically occur under specific circumstances involving significant breaches of the Laws of the Game or administrative errors.
Notable Cases:
1. Uzbekistan vs. Bahrain (2005):
During the 2006 World Cup qualifiers, Uzbekistan lodged a protest after their 1-0 victory over Bahrain was annulled due to a referee’s technical error. The referee had incorrectly awarded an indirect free-kick instead of ordering a retake of a penalty. FIFA upheld the protest, declaring the match void and ordering a replay.
2. Republic of Ireland vs. France (2009):
In a World Cup qualifying playoff, France’s Thierry Henry handled the ball leading to a decisive goal against Ireland. Despite Ireland’s formal protest and calls for a replay, FIFA rejected the appeal, stating that the referee’s decisions are final.
FIFA’s Stance:
FIFA maintains that match results are generally upheld unless there is clear evidence of a violation of the Laws of the Game or administrative errors. The organization emphasizes the finality of referees’ decisions during matches, as outlined in the Laws of the Game.
Implications:
While FIFA has the authority to review match incidents, overturning results is uncommon and reserved for cases with substantial evidence of errors or misconduct. Teams considering protests should be aware of the stringent criteria and the importance FIFA places on the integrity and finality of match outcomes.