Herentals Fined US$5,000; Must Play Three Home Matches Behind Closed Doors

Herentals FC has been fined US$5,000 and ordered to play three home matches behind closed doors after violent incidents involving security personnel (image source)

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has fined Herentals Football Club US$5,000 and ordered the team to play its next three home matches behind closed doors following violent incidents involving the club’s security personnel during a league match against Caps United at Rufaro Stadium on 13 September 2025.

The PSL Disciplinary Committee said Herentals pleaded guilty to breaching league regulations after one of the club’s security officers assaulted a fan in the VVIP area and another attacked a police officer. The ruling cited repeated misconduct by the same two officials, Paradzai Afa and Tairos Ngoma, who had previously appeared before the committee for similar offences. “The previous sanctions imposed on the club and its officials have not been effective in deterring further misconduct,” the committee noted, stressing concerns over spectator safety and competition integrity.

Both Afa and Ngoma have been banned from performing official club duties at PSL matches for the next three seasons. The sanctions take effect from Matchday 32, beginning with Herentals’ upcoming home fixture against Yadah FC, where only accredited personnel will be allowed entry for the next three home games.

The league’s decision reflects frustration with Herentals’ failure to address persistent security lapses. PSL Communications and Media Liaison Officer Kudzai Bare reaffirmed the league’s commitment to maintaining safety standards, urging clubs to ensure all staff are trained and compliant with PSL regulations.

The punishment highlights broader concerns about crowd control and professionalism in Zimbabwean football. Analysts warn that repeated misconduct not only attracts financial penalties but also harms clubs’ reputations, discourages sponsors, and diminishes match-day revenue. Herentals now faces the challenge of hosting matches without spectators and restoring discipline within its ranks.

Observers will be watching whether these sanctions prompt meaningful reforms or further strain relations between clubs, security teams, and law enforcement. For the PSL, consistent enforcement of rules remains crucial to safeguarding fans, officials, and the fairness of the competition.