AFCON referee Janny Sikazwe taken to hospital in the aftermath of the Tunisia vs Mali game
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The African Cup of Nations began on Sunday 9th January and there was already drama and absolute chaos in the Tunisia vs Mali game including referee Janny Sikazwe. Reports suggests that Sikazwe was taken to the hospital after the match as he suffering from heatstroke and dehydration during the game.
Janny Sikazwe blew the full time whistle in the 85th minute of the game but then the play was resumed and this time also Sikazwe blew for full time 17 seconds before the 90th minute mark. There was couple of minutes expected for extra-time as there were many stoppages. The match had two penalties in the second half, also Janny Sikazwe was called to the VAR monitor at pitch side and five stoppages for substitution.
The match was paused for a water break as well because the game was played in Limbe, Cameroon where the temperature was 34 degree celsius and humidity was 65 percent.
The head of referees at AFCON, Essam Abdel-Fatah confirmed that Janny Sikazwe from heatstroke and severe dehydration and was immediately taken to the hospital in Limbe, Cameroon.
“The referee suffered from heat stroke and very severe dehydration, which led to him losing focus and was taken to the hospital, It caused him to lose time in the 80th minute, and he ended the match in the 85th minute. He returned after directions from the assistant staff and then returned to finish the match in the 89th minute.” said Abdel-Fatah to Egyptian media.
“His decision is inexplicable” Tunisia coach Mondher Kebaier fuming by the management of Janny Sikazwe
Tunisia head coach Mondher Kebaier was furious how his side’s opening game in AFCON ended against Mali. Mali were leading 1-0 through Ibrahima Kone’s goal and have been awarded the win. However Tunisia have appealed for their first Group F game to be replayed after the chaotic ending.
“Very tough to manage non-sporting affairs, At the 85th minute he blows final whistle. Again at 89th minute. There was supposed to be seven to eight minutes of additional time. His decision is inexplicable.” said Tunisia head coach Mondher Kebaier.
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Waseem Shaikh
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