The highly anticipated Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) match between Scottland and Chicken Inn at Rufaro Stadium on Friday, 23 May, was abandoned in the 90th minute due to crowd trouble after the hosts, Scottland, were awarded a penalty.
The match was still 0–0 when the penalty was awarded, and the Chicken Inn players did not take kindly to the decision and refused to allow play to continue.
After some dispute, preparations were underway for the penalty to be taken when objects began raining down from the stands.
Chicken Inn goalkeeper Donovan Bernard then refused to continue, fearing he might be struck by the missiles.
Police were called in to disperse the crowd, and the match was eventually called off.
In a statement, PSL Communications and Media Liaison Officer Kudzai Bare expressed regret over the incident and said the matter would be dealt with in accordance with PSL Rules and Regulations. Said Bare:
The Premier Soccer League wishes to advise its stakeholders that the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match between Scottland FC and Chicken Inn FC, which was played on Friday, 23 May 2025, at Rufaro Stadium was abandoned.
We await the Match Commissioner and Referees’ reports on this matter for determination in accordance with the PSL Rules and Regulations. Furthermore, both Clubs will be requested to submit written reports on the events that transpired.
The PSL regrets any inconvenience caused to its members, stakeholders, and partners.
No further statement will be issued until all relevant match reports are received.
Back to top