. Sikazwe
By ADRIAN MWANZA –
FORMER Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Kalusha Bwalya has described the appointment of Zambian referee Janny Sikazwe to officiate in today’s Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) final, as an honour to the country.
Kalusha, the 1988 African footballer of the year, said in interview that Sikazwe was a top referee who deserved to take charge of such a high-profile match.
Cameroun take on Egypt in the final with Kalusha saying the Kapiri Mposhi referee had been consistent and proved that he could rise to the occasion.
He added that Sikazwe was opening doors for Zambian referees who would now be looking up to him for motivation.
“It is a great honour and pleasure for all of us to see the progression of Janny Sikazwe over the last few years,” he said.
Kalusha said Sikazwe needed a pat on the back for his hard work, discipline and determination.
He said the fact that Sikazwe had officiated two crucial finals in a space of two months showed that he was highly regarded by FIFA.
“If you remember, he officiated during the final of the Club World Cup in Japan which was lifted by Real Madrid,” he said.
He urged Sikazwe to continue working hard and aspiring for greater heights because only the sky was the limit for him.
“Well done to Janny. I know he will not disappoint us today and as a nation we are proud of him for his achievements,” he said.
