The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Disciplinary Committee, responsible for oversight of the Solomon Cup 2025 has been penalised for fielding more than the required amount of guest players in their match against Western Tomoko.
In a decision handed down on Wednesday the Disciplinary Committee said, it has reviewed a formal complaint regarding the match between the Makira Ulawa Football Association (MUFA) representative team and the Western Football Association (WFA) representative team held on 14th July 2025.
After a thorough assessment of the facts, relevant regulations, and testimonies, the Committee has reached the following decision:
Key Findings
- Breach of Player Eligibility Rules
MUFA fielded more than the permitted number of guest players during the match. This constitutes a violation of Section 9(4) of the Solomon Cup 2025 Regulations, which stipulates that no more than three (3) guest players may be on the field at any one time. - Strict Liability Offense
The breach is classified as a strict liability offense—regardless of intent—under Section 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code 2023 and the Solomon Cup Regulations. - Compromise of Match Integrity
Fielding ineligible players constitutes a serious breach of competition rules and undermines the fundamental principles of fair play and sportsmanship. The Committee determined that such an action compromises the integrity of the Solomon Cup competition.
Sanctions Imposed
- The match result is forfeited in favour of Western Football Association (WFA).
- MUFA is deducted 3 points from the competition standings.
- The revised match outcome has been determined in line with Section 28 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
Committee’s Remarks
“The regulations are clear. Adhering to player eligibility rules is fundamental to maintaining fairness and the spirit of competition. The Committee is obligated to uphold the integrity of the Solomon Cup and ensure all participating teams compete on a level playing field.”
Right to Review
MUFA reserves the right to request a review of this decision as outlined in the relevant provisions of the Solomon Cup 2025 Regulations. However, per Sections 4 and 7, the ruling of the Disciplinary Committee stands as final and binding in relation to disciplinary sanctions.
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