MBABANE – Malagasy referee Andrisoa Arnaud Zafimahatoha handles Nsingizini Hotspurs’ crucial CAF Champions League decider against Zimbabwe’s Scottland FC at Somhlolo National Stadium this afternoon.
Kick-off is set for 3pm (13:00 GMT) in Lobamba, where Eswatini’s envoys face a decisive first preliminary round second-leg tie. Nsingizini trail 1-0 following last week’s first-leg defeat in Harare. To secure passage to the next round, the home side must score at least two unanswered goals.
Zafimahatoha, a 31-year-old international referee since 2024, who regularly officiates continental club
matches, leads an all-Madagascar team on the pitch. He will be flanked by compatriots Lionel Hasinjarasoa Andrianantenaina as first assistant and Larenion Miladera as a second ‘linesman’. As per a correspondence from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Andofetra Avombitana Rivolala Manda Aroniaina Rakotojaona serves as the fourth official, while Tebalo Mpiti from Lesotho completes the delegation as the Match Commissioner.
Focus will be sharp on the officiating panel after the reverse fixture in Zimbabwe. South African referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa landed in the spotlight after issuing a straight red card to Nsingizini defender Kingsley Kwakyi inside three minutes.
Hotspurs will be desperate for a firm, fair hand from the Malagasy refereeing crew as they seek a memorable comeback on home turf.
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