TTFA vows to investigate “unacceptable behaviour” at Women’s qualifier; apologises to referees and Honduras U17s

Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) president Kieron Edwards condemned the “unacceptable behaviour” by some football supporters at the Ato Boldon Stadium last night, after objects were thrown at match officials as they attempted to return to their dressing room.

The incident followed Trinidad and Tobago’s 1-0 loss to Honduras in a 2025 Concacaf Women’s Under-17 qualifier, which threatened to eliminate the host team.

However, results elsewhere went the way of the young Women Soca Warriors who still advanced as one of the best second placed finishers.

Referee Glenda Lopez, a Guatemalan, faced the ire of the partisan crowd for a few questionable decisions—including booking Trinidad and Tobago forward Orielle Martin when she was the victim of a shove by opposing captain Yensi Ferrara and failing to stamp out repeated incidents of gamesmanship by the Honduran team.

It was a difficult game to officiate, though, with plenty at stake in a scrappy, physical affair. And Lopez’s decisions did not ostensibly change the outcome of the match.

As Lopez, assistants Deliva Vega and Mayling Chavarria and fourth official Portia Davis attempted to exit the playing area after the final whistle, some supporters threw ice cubes and a plastic water bottle in their direction—forcing the officials to scamper back to the running track.

Edwards, via a TTFA press release, vowed to punish those responsible.

“The TTFA has launched a formal investigation into the incident and is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” said the local football president.

“We wish to remind all football supporters that respect, fair play, and good sportsmanship must always be upheld, both on and off the field.”

The TTFA offered apologies to the officials involved as well as to the Honduras team.

“We are deeply disappointed that emotions in the stands escalated to the point where match officials, including Guatemalan referee Glenda Lopez and her team, were subjected to objects being thrown at them as they attempted to exit the field,” stated the TTFA.

“Such actions have no place in football, and we unequivocally denounce any behaviour that compromises the safety and integrity of the game.

“[…] We extend our sincere apologies to the officiating team and the visiting Honduran squad, who experienced this unfortunate incident.”

Trinidad and Tobago is scheduled to host a Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Qualifying group next month. Edwards said they will do their utmost to prevent a repeat of such behaviour.

“Trinidad and Tobago has a proud footballing tradition, and we must all do our part to create an environment that is safe, welcoming, and reflective of our nation’s love for the game,” he said.

“Moving forward, the TTFA will take all necessary steps to prevent a recurrence of such behavior, including increased security measures and stronger enforcement of spectator conduct policies at future events.

“We appeal to the public to support our teams with passion but always with respect. Football is a sport that unites communities and nations, and we urge all fans to embrace the spirit of fair play.

“Let us work together to ensure that our stadiums remain places of celebration, not conflict.”

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