Sports Reporter
June 21, Harare- In yet another match shrouded in controversy, Herentals Queens secured a dramatic 90th-minute penalty to snatch a 1-0 victory over a furious Mpopoma Sports Academy (MPOSA) side.
The decision sparked immediate protests from MPOSA players, who chose to walk off the pitch in disbelief, arguing that the penalty was nonexistent but was later taken.
This marks the second consecutive week Herentals Queens have benefited from contentious officiating.
Last week, they escaped defeat against Correctional Queens FC after being awarded a goal from an offside position at Wagadhugu Military Stadium.
Herentals Queens’ 2025 campaign is being riddled with disputes, raising eyebrows across the Zimbabwe Women’s Premier Soccer League (ZWPL).
The most glaring incident was against Kwekwe United Queens FC, where Herentals failed to provide a home ground. Instead of forfeiting the match and awarding Kwekwe three points, the league imposed a US$750 fine on Herentals and ordered a replay—with all expenses covered by the Harare-based side.
However, Kwekwe United Queens FC refused to comply, arguing that the ruling was unjust. To date, the match remains unplayed, with Kwekwe appealing for a fair resolution.
Other teams and league stakeholders have grown increasingly vocal, accusing Herentals Queens of receiving preferential treatment. Many believe the club has undue influence over league decisions, with every controversial call seemingly going in their favor.
“We are tired of this nonsense,” said one anonymous club official.
“Every week, there’s something questionable involving Herentals.
“The integrity of the league is at stake,” he said.
Mpopoma Sports Academy did not hold back their frustration, taking to their official WhatsApp channel to vent.
“We were robbed today at Gwanzura.
“A 90th-minute penalty given to Herentals, which was not a penalty at all.”
The sentiment was echoed by a supporter in a post-match interview.
“We played our hearts out, only for the officials to hand the game to Herentals.
It’s disheartening for these young players who work so hard, only to be cheated,” she said.
As the season progresses, pressure mounts on the ZWPL to address growing concerns over fairness and transparency.
With Herentals Queens repeatedly at the center of debatable decisions, many are questioning whether the league will take decisive action—or if the controversies will keep piling up.
For now, MPOSA is left to rue what they believe was a stolen victory, while Herentals march on under a cloud of suspicion.
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