Zambia Republic president Hakainde Hichilema reacted to Copper Queens’ loss to South Africa in WAFCON 2022 semi-final saying the penalty awarded to Banyana Banyana was ‘questionable’.

Ethiopian referee Lidya Tafesse Abebe is under heavy criticism for her poor officiating during Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash between Zambia and South Africa.

The 40-year old woman awarded a penalty which many considered as dubious to Banyana Banyan in the dying minutes of the game (90+4).

And Linda Motlhalo converted it to help South Africa qualoify for the tournament’s final.

Read more : WAFCON 2022 Semifinals – Zambia lodges complaint to CAF over poor refereeing vs South Africa

Following her final whistle, Zambia president Hakainde Hichilema called Bruce Mwape’s girls encouraging them saying the goal they conceded was controversial.

“First that goal is a questionable penalty, and I think we should look into it carefully it was outside the box but you did a fantastic job, you have done a good run up to now, the semi-final is good, and you qualified to the World Cup (and) we are proud of you and on behalf of all Zambians we are proud of you, feel happy don’t be depressed,” he said in a video call with the Copper Queens.

“Mulimbe ma ladies (stay strong ladies), you have done a wonderful job, mwagwila nchito yaikulu maningi ngako (you have done a very commendable job), you have made us proud, we are proud of you, you have really nothing to apologize about to feel sad about you have done a good job, next time you will be there”, President Hichilema added.

Pending the outcome of their complaint to CAF, Zambia will prepare for third-palce match against Nigeria on Friday, July 22 (20:00 GMT).