PRESS STATEMENT
DUAMENEFA REGIONAL TOURNAMENT 2026
RESCHEDULING OF THE SEMI-FINAL REPLAY BETWEEN VITA NOVA FC OF KLIKOR AND DZODZE KPELIKORPE GRACE FC
13TH NOVEMBER 2026
The Executive Board of Governors of the Duamenefa Foundation wishes to announce the rescheduling of the semi-final replay between Vita Nova FC of Klikor and Dzodze Kpelikorpe Grace FC from Saturday, 14th November to Saturday, 21st November 2026.
The decision follows a consideration of the available time and the need to provide both teams with adequate preparation for the replay.
BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION FOR THE LOC’S DECISION
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) wishes to clarify the circumstances surrounding the abandonment of the semi-final encounter and reaffirm its decision to resume the match from the 31st minute, with Vita Nova FC retaining its 1–0 lead.
The decision followed a review of available evidence, the 2026 DRT Tournament Regulations and consultations with relevant stakeholders, including an official of the National Sports Authority (NSA).
1. Application of Tournament Regulations
The LOC relied on Article 8 of the DRT Regulations, which addresses violence and hooliganism at match venues. The provision recognises the official reports of the Match Commissioner and Referee as primary sources for disciplinary decisions and prescribes sanctions where misconduct is established against a club or its supporters.
2. Concerns Regarding Referee Appointment
The LOC examined concerns about a possible conflict of interest arising from the appointment of an assistant referee who hails from Klikor, the home community of Vita Nova FC. Although the club was not directly responsible for the appointment, the LOC acknowledges that the selection created avoidable concerns and perceptions that could have been prevented through greater sensitivity.
3. Alleged Assault on an Assistant Referee
The allegation of an assault on an assistant referee was investigated. However, the official could not identify the alleged perpetrator, no formal police report was lodged, and Kpelikorpe FC denied responsibility. The LOC therefore found insufficient evidence to establish the club’s culpability.
4. Alleged Altercation Involving a DRT Official
An alleged altercation between a DRT official and a member of Kpelikorpe FC was also considered. However, the matter was not formally reported to the DRT and was subsequently settled privately, as confirmed by the official concerned. Consequently, it was not treated as an established disciplinary case against the club.
FINAL DECISION AND APPEAL FOR PEACE
Having considered the circumstances, applicable regulations and professional guidance obtained through consultations with an NSA official, the LOC upheld its decision to resume the match from the 31st minute, with Vita Nova FC maintaining its 1–0 advantage.
The LOC further observed that the previous incidents cited by Vita Nova FC were materially different from the present circumstances, as there was no established attack on its players or direct physical confrontation between players or officials of the two clubs.
The Executive Board of Governors consequently reaffirms the LOC’s decision in the interest of fairness, sporting integrity and peaceful coexistence.
The Duamenefa Regional Tournament is more than a sporting competition; it is a deliberate peacebuilding initiative aimed at promoting unity, reconciliation and harmonious relationships among communities.
The Foundation therefore appeals to the management, players, supporters, influencers and traditional stakeholders of both clubs to exercise restraint, avoid inflammatory statements and demonstrate maturity before, during and after the replay. Both clubs are urged to respect match officials, uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and allow football to unite rather than divide their communities.
THE SEMI-FINAL REPLAY IS NOW RESCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, 21ST NOVEMBER 2026.
The Foundation looks forward to a peaceful, fair and successful encounter.
SIGNED
EMMANUEL KETAMAN EVORTEPE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT
On behalf of the Executive Board of Governors
DUAMENEFA – LET US CO-EXIST IN PEACE.