CAF DISMISSES Orlando Pirates’ PROTEST against FC Saint Eloi Lupopo

Congolese side FC Saint Eloi Lupopo have emerged victorious in a disciplinary dispute with South African giants Orlando Pirates, after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) dismissed the Pirates’ complaint.

Lupopo eliminated Pirates from the CAF Champions League following a dramatic penalty shootout in the second preliminary-round tie.

The South African club subsequently lodged a protest, claiming that Lupopo head coach Guy Bukasa was ineligible to be on the bench due to an active suspension, and that two players, Wanet Kashala and Molia Lihozasia, should not have participated in the fixtures.

Bukasa had previously been sanctioned by CAF during his tenure with the DR Congo U-20 national team.

However, CAF has confirmed that his presence during the match does not warrant any penalties against Lupopo.

The governing body also validated the eligibility of Kashala and Lihozasia, affirming they were properly registered.

In a statement, Lupopo hailed the decision as a “decisive administrative victory”:

“CAF rules in favour of FC Saint Eloi Lupopo against Orlando Pirates FC. The complaint from the South African side has been dismissed, confirming the eligibility of players Molia and Kashala. Coach Guy Bukasa’s presence on the bench cannot be penalized against our club.”

CAF did, however, uphold Bukasa’s six-match suspension related to the U-20 case and imposed fines on Pirates over unrelated incidents, including $5,000 for restricting Lupopo’s accreditations and $20,000 for using chemicals in Lupopo’s locker room.

“This decision reinforces the victory achieved on the field and strengthens our position in the competition. FC Saint Eloi Lupopo will continue to defend its interests with the greatest determination,” the club added.

Lupopo will now face Mamelodi Sundowns in the group stage opener at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.