Orlando Pirates may have exited the pitch in the CAF Champions League (CAFCL), but the battle isn’t over.
CAF’s Transfer Matching System (TMS) could change the picture for the Sea Robbers’ favour.
ORLANDO PIRATES TO WIN CAF CASE AGAINST ST-ELOI LUPOPO?
It seemed all over after a 3–0 loss in Lubumbashi (DR Congo), but a dramatic 3–0 comeback in Soweto was a thriller before the group stage dream ended 5–4 on penalties.
But off the pitch, the Soweto giants have launched a legal fight against Lupopo, filing three separate complaints regarding their second-round tie.
The complaints target head coach Guy Bukasa and two players, Henoc Molia and Ramos Khashala Wanet, with allegations ranging from bench misconduct to player eligibility and registration issues. An insider familiar with CAF procedures believes Pirates’ strongest case lies in the latter.
“Yes, there’s definitely a chance for Orlando Pirates in this case,” a source told Soccer Laduma. “The main issue is how Saint Lupopo will prove that the player in question was registered before the deadline.”
TRANSFER MATCHING SYSTEM (TMS)
CAF’s Transfer Matching System (TMS) could be crucial. Introduced to prevent manipulation of registration timelines, TMS records exact registration dates and makes interference nearly impossible. “Before TMS, player clearances were done via email, and some clubs tampered with documents,” the insider explained. “With TMS, you can’t alter the time or date a player was registered unless someone manually enters false information, which would be a serious conspiracy.”
According to the source, the complaints about dual passports and late registrations carry more weight than the issue of Bukasa sitting on the bench. “Even if the coach is found guilty, I don’t believe it will result in the club being expelled,” he said.
“But the eligibility issues with the players? That’s where Orlando Pirates have a strong case.”
The insider added a word of caution: the outcome will depend on how well Lupopo defends themselves. “At this stage, it’s still finely balanced,” he continued.
“Orlando Pirates have a valid complaint, but CAF will weigh the evidence carefully. If Lupopo fails to justify the players’ eligibility, Pirates could see a dramatic reinstatement.”
Read more articles by Siseko Gwegwe here.
