Tunisian referee,Slim Jedidi,who officiated in the controversial semi-finals game between Ghana and Burkina Faso at the 2013 African Nations Cup,has denied claims that he was bribed at the tournament.Some of the calls by Jedidi in that game were questionable with Burkina Faso mainly at the receiving end,especially the sending off of Jonathan Pitroipa,as many suggested that he could have been gratified.
Burkina Faso went on to win the game on penalty shoot-outs and also Pitroipa’s suspension for the finals was lifted, after a public outcry.
“I did not meet or take money from any Ghanaian representatives. It is difficult to see that people do not accept that I could make mistakes,” said Jedidi who spoke for the first time on the incident to football365.fr
“I was wrong. What else to say? How to explain? I do not know. God willed that I’m wrong here. On the semi-final, I was not good, I made several mistakes, and this is undeniable.”
“I frowned, misinterpreted things. Who can say that he has never made a mistake? I’m sorry for those who are affected, I would apologize. But today, I’m trying to move on, to move forward,” he added.
“During CAN I refereed tough matches, including the semi-final which was considered very delicate, it means CAF trusted me. This confidence has not vanished in a game. I was short-listed to officiate at the next World Cup, I stay in contention. That has not changed. “
