The committee acknowledged Kumba Citys appeal as validly submitted within the statutory timeframe and, after thorough deliberation, declared it well-founded. As a result, the previous ruling was overturned in favor of the club.
In its fresh judgment, the disciplinary body concluded that players of Mintack FC were directly responsible for the interruption of the fifth-day fixture. According to the decision, their aggressive gestures towards match officials led to the abandonment of the encounter, which violated the principles of fair play and respect.
Consequently, the Appeals Committee declared Mintack FC losers of the match by penalty. Kumba City FC was awarded the victory with a scoreline of 3-0, along with the three points that come with such a result. However, it was also made clear that no additional points would be deducted from Mintack FC beyond the forfeiture.
The decision further handed strict sanctions to several Mintack FC players involved in the incident. Wilfried Francky, Gwet Mael, Emmanuel Pierre, Junior Stephane, Derick Ulrich, Marcel Onobiono, Wilfried Diallo, Christian Ndoumbe, Barnabe Frangele, and Bangoura Ismael were all suspended for one year from any football-related activity. This suspension is firm and non-negotiable, highlighting the seriousness with which FECAFOOT views acts of indiscipline.
For Kumba City FC, this outcome represents not only a win on paper but also a moral victory that strengthens their campaign in the ongoing competition. The ruling reinforces the importance of discipline, integrity, and respect for referees in football, while also sending a strong message that misconduct will not go unpunished.
With this decision behind them, Kumba City FC can now turn their attention to the semi-finals, where they will face the formidable FC Samar in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. In the other semi-final, Sable de Batie will go head-to-head with Dream Team FC as the race for qualification intensifies.