Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
SOUTH Africa’s football giants have been left licking their wounds after the CAF Disciplinary Board slapped Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns with massive fines totalling US$170 000 for security breaches and misconduct during their recent CAF Champions League matches.
Amabhakaniya were slammed with US$70 000 in fines after chaos erupted during their clash with MC Alger on April 9. The CAF Board ruled that Pirates failed dismally in crowd control and security. They were fined US$50 000 for their players’ improper conduct and another US$20 000 for failing to ensure adequate security.
To make matters worse, club official Ezekiel Matebula caught a four-match ban (two of which are suspended for a year), while players Sipho Chaine and Nkosinathi Sibisi were also slapped with suspended one-match bans.
Their opponents, MC Alger, were also found guilty of similar security violations, including fans lighting smoke bombs, using laser pointers, and throwing objects. The Algerians were fined US$40 000 and will now play two matches behind closed doors due to a previously suspended sanction.
Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns didn’t escape the wrath either. After their April 1 clash with Esperance, Amasandawana were found guilty of flouting Articles 82 and 83.2 of CAF’s disciplinary code. The price? A hefty US$100 000 fine and a stern warning to tighten up security going forward.
CAF made it clear — sloppy security and bad behaviour won’t go unpunished.
When the beautiful game turns ugly, CAF doesn’t blink. Pirates and Sundowns have just paid the price!
