The National Football Referees Commission (CNAF) has decided to open an inquiry to investigate the actions of referee Artur Alfinar, who was at the center of attention during the match between Ferroviário da Beira and Black Bulls, valid for the 15th round of the 2024 Moçambola. The controversial decisions made by the FIFA referee during the match, which involved not awarding two penalties to the visiting team, generated indignation among the fans and the coaching staff of Black Bulls, leading the CNAF to take measures to ascertain the facts.
Controversy on the pitch: Two penalties not awarded.
The first controversial incident occurred when a Ferroviário da Beira player brought down an opponent in the penalty area. Despite being just a few meters from the play, Artur Alfinar chose not to award a penalty, which sparked outrage among Black Bulls supporters and sympathizers. The indignation grew even greater when, later, player Kadre was fouled on his supporting foot inside the Chiveve "locomotives'" penalty area, and once again, Alfinar ignored the incident.
These decisions triggered harsh criticism from Black Bulls coach Hélder Duarte, who questioned the choice of referee for the match, especially considering that Alfinar is a member of the Sofala Provincial Football Arbitration Commission (COPAF) and an employee of the Mozambique Railways (CFM). "I don't understand why the referee is officiating two consecutive home games, especially since he's a CFM employee," stated Duarte, insinuating possible external influence on the decisions.
CNAF Inquiry and Procedures
In response to the controversy, the CNAF, led by Francisco Machel, decided to open an inquiry to investigate Artur Alfinar's decisions, following the entity's normal administrative procedures. The objective is to ascertain the truth about the referee's actions and guarantee the integrity of the competitions.
According to CNAF sources, the analysis will be based on the report from the referees' assessor present at the match, as well as television footage of the game. Furthermore, the four referees involved in the match will be called to provide explanations. Although no specific date has been given for the conclusion of the inquiry, the results are expected to be known by next week.
Recurrence and History of Controversies
This is not the first time Artur Alfinar has been the target of criticism for his performance on the field. Recently, he was also criticized by Ferroviário de Nampula after a match against Ferroviário da Beira. This history of controversies puts even more pressure on the CNAF to ensure that decisions are analyzed fairly and transparently.
The opening of this inquiry is yet another example of how the CNAF is committed to ensuring fairness and transparency in football competitions in Mozambique. However, it also reflects growing concern about the integrity of refereeing in the country, as more cases of controversy and scandals involving referees come to light.
