A football match in Kenya descended into chaos on Tuesday after angry fans invaded the pitch and attacked referee John Sulwe following a controversial penalty decision.
The incident occurred during the second leg of the Football Kenya Federation promotion-relegation playoff between Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.
The match was finely balanced when Sulwe awarded a penalty to Mombasa United in the 65th minute. The decision sparked furious protests, with a section of supporters storming the pitch and confronting the referee.
Video footage from the stadium showed Sulwe running across the pitch as fans pursued him, with objects reportedly thrown in his direction. Security personnel intervened and escorted the referee and his officials to safety.
The match was subsequently abandoned, with the penalty yet to be taken. At the time of the incident, Kariobangi Sharks were leading 2–1 on the night, leaving the aggregate score tied at 3–3 after Mombasa United had won the first leg 2–1.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of match officials in Kenyan football. The Football Kenya Federation is expected to determine the outcome of the abandoned playoff and consider possible disciplinary action.
