FFB annuls Napoles FC’s victory, orders replay of PWLB Semifinal against Jewel Fury FC

Published by [email protected] at May 16, 2025

Posted: Friday, May 16, 2025. 2:39 pm CST.

Jewel Fury – Photo Credit: Jewel Fury FC

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Following a formal protest lodged by Jewel Fury FC, the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) have annulled the result of the Premier Women’s League of Belize (PWLB) semifinal between Jewel Fury and Napoles FC, ordering a full replay of the second-leg match. The controversial decision comes after a review determined that the match had been improperly concluded without a required penalty shootout.

Originally, Napoles FC advanced to the PWLB final by edging past defending champions Jewel Fury on the away goal rule, securing a 2-2 aggregate draw over the two-leg series. However, Jewel Fury filed a protest, contesting the ruling, arguing that tournament regulations mandated penalties in the event of a tie, rather than determining advancement based on away goals.

After an extensive review, the FFB confirmed that a procedural error had occurred. As a result, the match result has been nullified, including any associated disciplinary actions.

“The match was prematurely concluded without the required penalty shootout, as per tournament regulations,” the FFB said.

“The away goal rule will not apply.”

Napoles FC – Photo Credit: Napoles FC

A rematch has been scheduled for Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the FFB Stadium in Belmopan at 6:00 p.m. The FFB have also announced that neutral, non-local match officials will be appointed for the fixture, and the away goal rule will not apply.

The decision throws the tournament into upheaval, as Napoles FC were already preparing for their final against Sagitun GIRLZ. Napoles had defended their qualification, citing that both the Match Commissioner and officials had ruled in their favour at the conclusion of the semifinal. However, Jewel Fury’s challenge ultimately led to an official review, resulting in the unprecedented call for a replay.

In response to the ruling, the FFB emphasized its commitment to fairness, transparency, and proper application of regulations across all competitions. The FFB said they aim to ensure that all matches adhere strictly to tournament bylaws, preventing future disputes over match conclusions.

With the replay now set, Jewel Fury FC will have another chance to claim a spot in the final, while Napoles FC must regroup and fight once more to secure the spot they feel is rightfully theirs.

The winners will face the Sagitun GIRLZ in the Final.

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