By Milton Marima
The Confederation of African Football, CAF, has conditionally authorised the return of spectators to the National Sports Stadium, allowing a maximum of 10,000 fans per match for selected upcoming fixtures.
In a press release issued on Saturday, October 10, the Zimbabwe Football Association, ZIFA, confirmed that the authorisation covers the Mighty Warriors’ Women’s Olympic Football Tournament qualifier against Malawi on October 13.
The approval also extends to Scottland FC’s CAF Champions League clash against Angolan giants Atlético Petróleos de Luanda, provisionally scheduled for October 17, subject to confirmation of the official fixture date.
The development follows the restrictions imposed after a supporter tragically lost their life during the Warriors’ Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Democratic Republic of Congo at the National Sports Stadium.
ZIFA says stadium gates will now open five hours before kick-off to allow adequate time for security screening, orderly entry and seating.
Attendance will be strictly controlled, with spectators permitted to occupy only designated and approved areas.
The association has also announced enhanced security measures covering crowd management, access control, medical services and emergency response.
Meanwhile, ZIFA has warned that hooliganism, violence, intimidation, vandalism and forced entry will not be tolerated, with offenders facing possible removal from the stadium or bans from attending future matches.
A CAF Safety and Security Officer will monitor the implementation of the conditions, with failure to comply potentially resulting in further restrictions or withdrawal of the authorisation.
ZIFA has thanked the Government of Zimbabwe, security services, medical teams, emergency responders and stadium authorities for their cooperation in ensuring safer sporting facilities.
The conditional return of supporters is expected to provide a boost to Zimbabwean football, although strict adherence to the safety requirements will be crucial in maintaining CAF’s approval.
