Kenya’s national team coach, Engin Firat, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with Senegalese referee Adalbert Diouf following their 2025 AFCON Qualifiers Group J match against Zimbabwe, which ended in a 0-0 draw at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, on Friday.
In his post-match remarks, Firat criticized Diouf for failing to issue red cards to Zimbabwean players Khama Billiat and Gerald Takwara for dangerous play. Takwara received just a yellow card for a rough challenge on Amos Nondi in the 66th minute, and Billiat, who was booked in the 23rd minute, avoided a second yellow card despite further infractions.
Firat also accused Zimbabwe of playing a defensive style of football, stating that the Warriors were “only defending and not playing.”
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Additionally, Firat was frustrated by Diouf’s decision not to award Kenya a penalty when Austin Odhiambo was fouled inside Zimbabwe’s penalty area. He told reporters (via Soccer24):
“The referee should not favor any team. There were several instances where his decisions were questionable. Takwara’s foul deserved a red card, and Billiat should have been sent off for a second booking. Austin was clearly fouled in the box, but no penalty was given. This situation is frustrating and unacceptable. For the improvement of football, referees must be impartial and not side with teams that are merely defending.”Engin Firat
