The Nzalang National team of Equatorial Guinea will not play their upcoming match against Zimbabwe at the Bata stadium as previously anticipated. The match, part of the qualification series for the next Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), will instead be held in Cameroon. This change was announced by the Equatoguinean Football Federation (FEGUIFUT) on November 7, during a press conference.
According to the FEGUIFUT spokesperson, despite efforts by the federation and the government to host the match in Bata, an agreement with the Zimbabwean Football Federation could not be reached. The Bata stadium had undergone renovations and was temporarily homologated, but the process was completed too late. By then, Zimbabwe had already made arrangements to play in Cameroon and refused to change their plans.
The late homologation of the Bata stadium is cited as the main reason for the change in venue. The spokesperson for FEGUIFUT expressed regret over the situation, stating that the federation had done everything possible to host the match in Bata. The decision to play in Cameroon denies Equatorial Guinea the potential advantage of playing before their home crowd.
The FEGUIFUT has apologized to the fans in Bata who had been looking forward to watching their national team play. The federation acknowledged that fans had made preparations to receive the team and expressed understanding for their disappointment. The change in venue is a significant blow to the team's supporters and the local community.
Despite the setback, the FEGUIFUT is urging fans to continue supporting the team as they prepare for the upcoming matches. The federation emphasizes that these matches are crucial for Equatorial Guinea's chances of qualifying for the next CAN. The team will need to focus on the challenges ahead and rally support from their fans.
The decision to play in Cameroon was made after discussions between the two federations failed to yield a compromise. The Zimbabwean team had already finalized their preparations for the match in Cameroon, and a change in venue was not feasible at that point. The FEGUIFUT is now concentrating on motivating the team and fans for the upcoming matches.
The upcoming matches against Zimbabwe are critical for Equatorial Guinea's qualification prospects. The team will need to perform well to secure a spot in the next CAN. While playing in Cameroon may present challenges, the FEGUIFUT is encouraging fans to support the team as they strive to achieve their goals.
Key points
- The match between Equatorial Guinea's Nzalang National and Zimbabwe will be played in Cameroon due to the late homologation of the Bata stadium.
- The change in venue denies Equatorial Guinea the potential advantage of playing before their home crowd.
- The FEGUIFUT has apologized to fans in Bata for the disappointment and is urging them to continue supporting the team.
Reporting sources
- El partido del Nzalang contra Zimbabue ya no se jugará en Bata sino en Camerún · AHORAEG Guinea Ecuatorial - Diario online líder de noticias