AFCON opener hangs in balance as Zimbabwe threatens to boycott match
Zimbabwe national team also known as The Warriors have allegedly threatened to boycott today's African Cup Of Nations (AFCON) opener against the tournament hosts of Egypt over a payment disputes.
Reports indicated that the players refused to turn up for what would have been the last training session and accused the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) of lying to the Zimbabwean government over their payments.
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According to Howard Musonzaze who is a Zimbwabean journalist, the players are currently in talks with the football federation over their payments and allowances.
The journalist said that the players demand the federation to be clear on the amount they will be receiving in allowances and appearance fees for representing the country in the African Cup of Nations.
Yesterday evening, the Zimbabwe Football Association dismissed these reports in an official statement saying that the national team had not ventured in any strike as reported by the media.
The association added that they had reached a consensus with the players and both parties were to honour the contractual obligations agreed upon.
"The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) would like to reiterate that the Warriors have remained focused ahead of opening Group A match against Egypt on Friday (21 June 2019)," the statement reads in part.
They added; "ZIFA values the welfare of players and shall never abdicate from its responsibilities."
Zimbabwe is expected to open the 2019 AFCON against the hosts of Egypt this evening at 23:00 (EAT)
Other disputes
Reigning African champions Cameroon are also in talks with their Football Association over players bonuses.
