Fifa recalls Black Maidens for semi-final clash, bans referee

In an unprecedented move, Fifa has recalled Ghana's Black Maidens into the U-17 Womens' World Cup competition, ruling poor officiating cost Ghana in their quarter-final clash with Italy.

Fifa, in a statement issued Tuesday, read "competitions for young teams must firmly imprint on young footballers that fairs on and off the pitch is the standard bearer for the game".The World football governing body has also banned Japanese referee Fusako Kajiyama from officiating in the next youth tournament.

Last Thursday, the Black Maidens lost painfully, after the referee ruled for two penalties - in the 17th and 50th minute - in favour of Italy. Fifa, in a statement on its website has deemed the decisions unfair and wrong.

Fifa has also cancelled the semi-final result between Spain and Italy in which Italy lost. Italy's loss is seen to have given Fifa the opportunity to cancel the Ghana result.

Ghana football officials are said to be consulting FIfa over the implication of the ruling. Ghana could play Spain this Thursday.

More soon.

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