On Saturday evening, Capital Union managed to secure a goalless draw against the visiting team from Asfi, Morocco, a result that seemed orchestrated by the referee. The match took place at the "5 July 1962" stadium and was part of the first leg of the CAF Cup semi-finals, officiated by a trio from Egypt, led by referee Amin Mohamed Omar, alongside his VAR colleagues.
The officiating drew ire from the Capital Union players after the referee disallowed a goal from midfielder Zakaria Darawi in the 51st minute, following a VAR review. The players, clad in red and black, believed the goal was legitimate, especially after previously appealing for a penalty in the 17th minute when their striker Ahmed Khaldi was fouled inside the penalty area by the Asfi defense.
Referee Omar once again denied Capital Union another goal, this time scored by defender Hussein Dahiri in the 77th minute after another VAR consultation, leading to further speculation and controversy regarding the referee's performance favoring the visiting team.
However, the referee did issue a red card to Asfi's goalkeeper Hamza Hmiani in the 80th minute after he committed a violent foul on player Dahiri, indicating a late return to fairness in officiating. The match was witnessed by the national coach Vladimir Petkovic, who was present in the VIP stands.
The return leg will take place in Asfi, Morocco, on April 19, with the proceedings overseen by referee Samuel Ouyekunda from Rwanda.
As reported by echoroukonline.com.
