Phalaborwa United have taken their fight against a two-year football ban to the South African Football Association (SAFA) Arbitration Tribunal as the Limpopo club seeks to overturn the disciplinary decision that threatens its participation in competitive football.

The ABC Motsepe League side was suspended from SAFA league competitions after being found guilty of misconduct following a controversial Nedbank Cup provincial qualifier against Vondwe XI Bullets on September 19, 2026, at the Makhado Show Ground.

The match was abandoned with the score at 0-0 after tensions escalated over a late penalty awarded to Vondwe XI Bullets. The decision sparked protests from the Phalaborwa United camp, and the situation subsequently deteriorated, forcing the match official to leave the field.

Following a disciplinary hearing held on September 25 and 26, the SAFA Limpopo Disciplinary Committee announced its ruling on October 1. The club was expelled from SAFA league competitions for two years and fined R20,000, with R10,000 of the fine suspended. Vondwe XI Bullets were also awarded the match.

The disciplinary committee found the club guilty of several offences, including misconduct involving a match official and behaviour that led to the abandonment of the fixture. The allegations included the throwing of objects and the invasion of the pitch during the incident.

However, Phalaborwa United have challenged the ruling and are seeking a review through the national football arbitration process. The club has expressed dissatisfaction with the disciplinary outcome and believes the decision should be reconsidered.

The appeal represents a crucial step for the organisation, its players and staff, many of whom depend on the club for their livelihoods. Team management has previously argued that the punishment was excessive and raised concerns about the fairness of the disciplinary proceedings.

The Arbitration Tribunal's decision could determine whether Phalaborwa United remain excluded from SAFA competitions for the full two-year period or receive relief through the appeal process.

For now, the club must await the next development in the case as it attempts to protect its future in South African football.

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