IFO Sport Union Issues Disciplinary Decision Following Abandoned Pinnacle Tournament Match

11 July 2026 | IFO Sport Union

The IFO Sport Union has officially delivered its judgment in Disciplinary Case No. 002 of 2026 concerning the abandoned Pinnacle Tournament Second Round match between Tokyo FC and Al Matac FC, played on 10 July 2026.

Following a comprehensive review of the referee’s report, the Match Commissioner’s report, security reports, statements from tournament officials, and other available evidence, the Office of the Chairman concluded that the match was abandoned after serious acts of violent conduct occurred on the field of play.

According to the findings, the match proceeded without incident during the first half. In the second half, Tokyo FC opened the scoring before Al Matac FC equalized from a penalty kick. Shortly thereafter, a Tokyo FC player received a second yellow card and was sent off in accordance with the IFAB Laws of the Game.

The disciplinary judgment states that immediately after the dismissal, several Tokyo FC players engaged in violent conduct against players of Al Matac FC, resulting in a mass confrontation. Despite intervention by tournament security personnel and match officials, order could not be restored, leaving the referee with no alternative but to abandon the match to protect the safety of players, officials, spectators, and security personnel.

After examining the evidence, the Office found Tokyo FC guilty of violent conduct, gross misconduct, and bringing the game of football into disrepute.

As a result, the Office ordered the following disciplinary sanctions:

• Tokyo FC is suspended from participating in the next five (5) football leagues and/or tournaments organized, sanctioned, or recognized by the IFO Sport Union.
• Upon completion of the suspension, the club must pay KSh 15,000 before being considered for reinstatement.
• The Office further noted that individuals identified as principal instigators of the violence are in lawful police custody and that the IFO Sport Union will cooperate fully with the relevant law enforcement agencies.

In delivering the judgment, the Chairman reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to protecting the integrity of football and ensuring the safety of all participants.

“Football is a game founded upon discipline, respect and fair play. Violence has no place in the game, and the IFO Sport Union will continue to enforce its Constitution and the Laws of the Game to safeguard players, officials, and supporters.”

The IFO Sport Union remains committed to promoting fair competition, discipline, respect for match officials, and a safe sporting environment for all clubs participating in its competitions.