Karoi can’t buy players’ water during matches but bizarrely finds US$5000 to appeal
HARARE, Zimbabwe — With the Northern Region Division One championship reaching a thrilling climax this weekend, allegations of foul play have surfaced. Mwos, currently in second place, are accused of funding Karoi United’s appeal against a league decision that awarded their abandoned match to league leaders Scottland with a 3-0 scoreline.
The controversy stems from a recent match between Karoi United and Scottland, which was abandoned with eight minutes left to play after Karoi supporters allegedly attacked the referee. At the time, the teams were tied 1-1. On Monday, the Northern Region Football League (NRFL) ruled Karoi responsible for the incident, awarding the match to Scottland with a 3-0 victory. The decision propelled Scottland to the top of the standings, putting them in prime position to secure the title if they win their final game against Black Mambas this weekend.
A source close to the matter noted the irony in Karoi’s financial situation, describing the team’s inability to cover even basic match expenses like water for players. Yet, they reportedly managed to pull together an astonishing $5,000 to fund the appeal.
“It’s baffling,” the source said. “Karoi has struggled with the basics all season — they couldn’t afford water or proper uniforms, yet somehow they found $5,000 for an appeal that has no benefit for them. It’s absurd and suggests an outside sponsor.”
The source further alleged that Mwos, rather than focusing on their own matches, has been actively attempting to disrupt Scottland’s run to the title, going as far as allegedly backing Karoi’s appeal.
“Instead of concentrating on their own game, Mwos is obsessed with Scottland, even sponsoring bad publicity against their rivals,” the source said. “On appeal day, evidence, including voice recordings, will expose Mwos’ role in this mess.”
If Scottland wins this weekend, they will clinch the Division One title and earn promotion to the Premier League.
