BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has fined the Equatorial Guinea Football Federation CHF 10,000 (approximately MK22 million) for failing to show up for their World Cup qualifying match against Malawi’s Flames last Thursday at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
According to a statement released by FIFA, Equatorial Guinea breached competition regulations after their team failed to arrive in Malawi for the scheduled fixture.
As a result, the governing body has awarded Malawi a 3–0 victory, in line with international football rules that grant automatic points and goals to the team ready to play when the opponent defaults.
Reports indicate that the Equatorial Guinea squad refused to travel to Malawi following disagreements over the team’s travel arrangements.
Players reportedly objected to last-minute changes in the flight schedule after team officials altered their departure time from Thursday morning to the afternoon.
The players argued that the new schedule would have left them with little time to rest and prepare for the crucial qualifier.
Despite efforts by officials to resolve the standoff, the players maintained their stance, leading to the team’s failure to depart.
The incident sparked outrage among fans in Equatorial Guinea, who accused their football association of poor planning and lack of professionalism.
Meanwhile, the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has welcomed FIFA’s decision, saying it reflects fairness and adherence to football governance standards.
“We are pleased with FIFA’s ruling. Malawi was ready to play, and all logistical arrangements were in place. This decision reinforces the importance of discipline and commitment in international football,” said a FAM(Gomezan Zakazaka).
Sports Enock Banda have described the fine as a warning to other nations about the consequences of poor coordination in international tournaments.
They noted that the ruling not only compensates Malawi but also protects the integrity of the World Cup qualifiers.
Equatorial Guinea now faces pressure to improve its administrative efficiency and restore player confidence as FIFA continues to monitor the situation.
The country could face stiffer sanctions if similar incidents occur in the future.
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