Washington Arubi rejects alleged bribe in Zim football scandal

Former Marumo Gallants goalkeeper Washington Arubi has reportedly rejected an alleged attempt to influence a Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League match, sparking a match-fixing controversy ahead of the clash between CAPS United and Scottland FC.

Arubi’s CAPS United host Scottland FC in Harare this Thursday in a potential title-deciding match.

Scottland FC trail league leaders Hardrock FC by eight points, with two games in hand.

arubi’s leacked audio

A leaked audio recording circulating on social media allegedly captures Kwekwe United president Bridgette Mudhosi approaching the CAPS United goalkeeper and asking him to help influence the outcome of the match scheduled for Rufaro Stadium.

According to The Herald, Arubi recorded the conversation and refused to participate in the alleged scheme.

He also reportedly rejected an attempt to involve other players.

The allegations have prompted Zimbabwe’s football authorities to reiterate their commitment to protecting the integrity of the domestic game.

Arubi rejects alleged approach

In the recording, the woman allegedly claims she was sent by Scottland to approach the goalkeeper.

However, Scottland officials reportedly denied that Mudhosi was acting on the club’s behalf, describing the claims as baseless.

Arubi is heard rejecting the request and expressing his commitment to fair play.

His reported refusal has placed the spotlight on the responsibility of players to protect the credibility of football competitions.

ZIFA warns against match manipulation

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has reminded Premier Soccer League clubs that match manipulation and corruption will not be tolerated.

In a statement, ZIFA general secretary Yvonne Mapika Manwa said the integrity of the game was non-negotiable and urged clubs to ensure that their officials, players and representatives upheld the highest standards of professionalism.

“The Zimbabwe Football Association wishes to remind all PSL Governors of their responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and Fair Play in all football activities.

“The integrity of our game remains non-negotiable.

“ZIFA maintains a firm zero-tolerance against match manipulation, corruption and any conduct that undermines the credibility of football.

“All clubs are expected to ensure that their officials, players, technical teams and representatives conduct themselves in a manner that protects the reputation and values of the game.

“Club leadership is urged to remain vigilant and entirely promote compliance with all the applicable ZIFA, CAF and FIFA regulations governing ethics, integrity and competitions.

“As custodians of Zimbabwe football, let us collectively safeguard the integrity of our competitions to ensure that every result is determined solely by merit, commitment and performance on the field of play.”