13th Jan, 2022 Football

And the fourth official has indicated there will be minus 20 seconds of stoppage time

It’s been a slow start to the African Cup of Nations, with almost every game finishing 1-0 so far.

But fortunately there’s been plenty of other entertainment in the stifling Cameroonian heat.

The tournament kicked off with a spicy start, as Burkina Faso’s Steeve Yago flew in with the horror challenge above after just 38 seconds, earning himself a punch in the back.

Meanwhile, in Tunisia v Mali, controversy struck. Zambian Referee Janny Sikazwe gave two questionable penalties and a harsh red card.

Following a second half that included several lengthy stoppages, he blew the full time whistle after just 85 minutes.

When the livid Tunisians – who trailed 1-0 – demanded he reverse the decision, he agreed to restart.

But four minutes later, with the clock still only showing 89 minutes, Janny blew for full-time again, leading to angry protests from the Tunisians.

With the post-match press conferences underway, tournament officials intervened and announced the game would be restarted again so injury time could be played.

Mali reappeared but despite their fury, Tunisia never returned. They’d already jumped on the team bus and left the stadium.

As for the ref, he was escorted off the field by security, who formed a protective ring around him. Officials later said he was suffering from heat stroke.

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