Fifa debunks Zambian media claim
by Gary Al-Smith 19 June 2012, 15:14
FIFA has issued a statement distancing itself from claims in the Zambian media that it has awarded the Chipolopolo three points for its protest against Sudan.
The African champions have been campaigning for the world football governing body to rule in their favour in the matter of Sudan's fielding of an ineligible player in their 2014 World Cup qualifier three weeks ago.
"The information you send as of this afternoon (regarding Zambia being awarded three points) is not correct," FIFA Communications Department said in a statement.
A Zambian website reported last week that the Chipolopolo have been awarded three points by the world governing body for fielding Saed Ali Din - who was not eligible to play in the game.
Had this been the case then Zambia would have hopped to the top of Group D of the qualifiers at the expense of Ghana. FIFA went further to say it had not reached a conclusion on the matter.
"We are not in a position to comment further for the moment, but hope to have more information perhaps later next week."
Zambia, who will shoot atop Group D with six points if they win the case, lost 2-0 to the Falcons of Jediane but are seeking redress for Saed Din Ali's presence - something the player himself has admitted.
