Kafou has “broken” his silence!
The 33-year-old AEL midfielder posted a story on Instagram regarding the additional eight-game suspension imposed on him by the Disciplinary Committee, for spitting at an APOEL player during the “Lions’” 6-0 loss at GSP Stadium.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The Portuguese player called his ejection unfair and emphasized that the VAR review was incorrect, since he had no intention of insulting or targeting another athlete.
According to his account, what actually happened was that he spat out a piece of gum, which, as he claims, did not even come into contact with an opponent.
Kafou considers his punishment an insult and has asked the authorities to hear his side of the story and reexamine the facts.
In detail: “If one day these words are read when I am no longer here to speak for myself, I want people to remember not words of anger, but the testimony of a man who always tried to live according to his values, with dignity and a clear conscience.
I am a human being. I am an athlete. I have dedicated my life to soccer, and I have learned that true character is not revealed when everything is going well, but when we face injustice and nevertheless choose to remain true to who we are.
I was suspended for eight matches following a VAR review, which interpreted what happened as spitting at an opponent.
That’s not what happened, nor was it ever my intention. A piece of gum fell out of my mouth, and based on what I saw and experienced, it didn’t even come into contact with the opponent. I would never spit on purpose, nor would I insult or target another player, and I never intended to offend anyone in this way.
I know what happened, what I did, and what my intention was. Above all, I know the values I stand for.
I’m not writing out of frustration, nor to incite hatred or point fingers at anyone. I’m writing because there are moments when we feel that our voice is no longer being heard. In those moments, we must have the courage to remain true to our convictions.
What is happening here is a lack of respect toward me, my work, and the years of dedication and sacrifice I have given to this profession. It is also a lack of respect toward AEL, the club I represent, which knows who I am, what values I uphold, and the way in which I have always represented this jersey.
I accept that I may be judged, and I understand that decisions must be made. However, everyone has the right to be heard, and the truth must be pursued to the very end.
I’m not asking for special treatment. I’m asking for justice.
I will continue to move forward with my head held high. I may be barred from competing, I may have been punished, or I may have been judged unfairly by some, but no one can take away from me the truth of what happened, my intention at that moment, or the values by which I have chosen to live.
I hope my voice is heard.
I hope the truth will prevail.
And above all, I hope this injustice will be rectified.
Kafou.”
