We are dismayed by the statements made yesterday and previously by Mr Ace Ncobo regarding the role of the President of COSAFA, Dr Phillip Chiyangwa, with regards his mediation efforts within the South African Football Association.

Mr Ncobo’s statements are inaccurate and ill-informed, and show a lack of understanding of regional football structures.

Dr Chiyangwa, as the President of the Zonal Union, is the chief representative of CAF and FIFA as regards Zonal matters and it was in this capacity that the President was requested by FIFA to mediate in the SAFA Presidency matter.

“I treat with the contempt they deserve the statements made over the past weeks by Mr Ncobo,” Dr Chiyangwa said. “COSAFA is a legal entity and will not stand for this unfounded and uninformed criticism and allegations. Mr Ncobo is advised to desist.”