Both Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates have been sanctioned by the CAF Disciplinary Board following incidents in their recent CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup matches, respectively.
Mamelodi Sundowns Fined R1.8 Million for Security Breach
Sundowns were found guilty of violating Articles 82 and 83.2 of the CAF Disciplinary Code after crowd disturbances during their 1-0 win over Esperance at Loftus Versfeld on 1 April. The club has been ordered to pay a $100,000 (R1.8 million) fine and must implement stricter safety and security measures for future matches.
This ruling comes just before their highly anticipated CAF Champions League semi-final first leg against Al Ahly, set for Saturday at Loftus Versfeld.
Orlando Pirates Hit with Fines and Suspensions
Pirates faced disciplinary action after their CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final second leg against MC Alger at Orlando Stadium on 9 April. The charges included:
- Misconduct
- Failure to provide adequate security
Punishments imposed:
- Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and defender Nkosinathi Sibisi each received a one-match ban (suspended for one year) for their conduct after full-time.
- Team official Ezekiel Matebula was handed a four-match ban, with two games suspended for a year.
- The club was fined 20,000 (R376,394) for security failures.
What This Means for Both Clubs
- Sundowns must ensure tighter security ahead of their clash with Al Ahly to avoid further sanctions.
- Pirates will need to address disciplinary and safety concerns as they continue their continental campaign.
With both teams still in contention for CAF silverware, these rulings serve as a stern reminder of the strict enforcement of regulations in African club competitions.