ZIFA Hands Referee Qedisani Dirwai Six-Match Ban Over Controversial Penalty Decision

Referee Qedisani Dirwai Suspended for Six Matches After Controversial FC Platinum vs Dynamos Clash

The Zimbabwe Football Association Referees Committee (ZIFA RC) has slapped Premier Soccer League referee Qedisani Dirwai with a six-match suspension.

The punishment stems from a controversial decision he made during a high-stakes match between FC Platinum and Dynamos.

Dirwai officiated the Matchday 17 fixture at Mandava Stadium on June 22, 2025.

The match was abandoned in the 75th minute after Dynamos players walked off the pitch in protest.

Also Read: Double Blow for Dynamos FC: PSL Fines Club and Coach, Awards Match to FC Platinum

Penalty Decision Sparks Walk-Off

The incident stemmed from Dirwai’s decision to award a penalty to FC Platinum, ruling that Dynamos captain Emmanuel Jalai had fouled Oscar Bhebhe inside the penalty box.

The call was met with immediate outrage from the Dynamos bench and players, culminating in their decision to leave the field.

Performance Deemed Below Standard

In a statement issued on July 24, 2025, ZIFA confirmed Dirwai’s suspension and clarified that the decision was based on a thorough review of the match, including the Match Commissioner’s report.

“Qedisani Dirwai has been serving a suspension from officiating Premier Soccer League matches, in line with the Association’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of refereeing and fair play in the domestic game,” the statement read.

The suspension covers Matchdays 18 to 23 of the ongoing PSL season.

ZIFA Cites Code of Conduct

ZIFA cited Paragraph 21 of the Referees Code of Conduct, stating that the six-match suspension was a corrective and disciplinary measure in response to a performance that “fell short of the expected professional standards.”