Nigerian champion, Plateau United, displayed character to shrug aside visiting USM Alger of Algeria 2-1 in the CAF Confederations Cup last weekend.
The Peace Boys triumphed through a late strike from Emma James after Faouzi Yaya had cancelled out King Osanga’s opener.
However, the victory was marred by irregularities before the encounter at Agege Stadium, their adopted home ground.
South African referee, Victor Gomes, was reportedly approached to influence the game’s outcome.
Born in Johannesburg, the 35-year-old has been into the craft since 2011.
Just one year after, he was voted his country’s best umpire.
With such pedigree, Gomes wasn’t one to be lured by money.
He blatantly turned down US$30 000 (N11 Million), reporting the matter to CAF.
“Our referees have conducted themselves impeccably well in the sense that they were able to identify and report the issue immediately to CAF for them to make further investigations on the matter,” said Tenda Masikhwa, South Africa FA’s Head of Referees.
“Because it was a CAF appointment, they wrote a report and sent it to them, and they (CAF) are dealing with it.
“Our officials showed the rest of the continent and the world that they won’t tolerate corruption within the game.
“We are proud of what they did and this is why South African referees are so much sought after and are highly regarded on the continent.”
