Mbabane: The currently halted 2019/20 football season will see the light of day.
This was announced by Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Frederick Mngomezulu this afternoon, May 28 as he announced a four phased plan to restart the season. Football activities were suspended back in March due to the novel coronavirus that has sent billions across the globe into lockdown.
Mngomezulu announced that the first phase of ‘operation restart’ will begin on June 15, 2020, terming it the biological phase which will include intensive screening and testing of all involved in football. These include officials, players and referees among others.
This particular phase will last for two weeks to allow those found positive to be treated.
“It will also involve preparation of playing venues in making sure they meet health requirements deemed fit in the fight against Covid-19,” he said.
Mngomezulu said the second phase will take three weeks and it will be dedicated to teams to start preparing for a return to action. The first week will be for individual training, second week for group trainings of about eight and the third week will allow physical contact training. All this time, players and staff will be tested daily of the deadly coronavirus.
The third phase, likely to be at the end of July will be the competition phase that will see teams battle it out for silverware and finish the season.
“This phase will take eight weeks as we will be playing even midweek and can be extended by a further two weeks to allow all remaining competitions to wrap up. Players and match officials will be tested after every match,” Mngomezulu added be forced to pay that particular player.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for the latest news:
Join Now
