CAF holds crucial security meeting with clubs ahead of weekend continental fixtures

The Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Safety and Security Department has held a key virtual meeting with participating clubs ahead of this weekend’s CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup fixtures, as preparations intensify to ensure safe and well-organised matchdays across the continent.

The video conference brought together representatives from several high-profile clubs, including Mamelodi Sundowns, Espérance Sportive de Tunis, AS FAR, RS Berkane, Zamalek, CR Belouizdad, OC Safi, and USM Alger.

According to details from the meeting, discussions placed strong emphasis on matchday security planning, with particular attention paid to the management of visiting supporters.

Key among the issues raised were the allocation of designated seating areas for away fans, improved coordination between club officials and local security agencies, and structured operational plans aimed at preventing incidents before, during, and after matches.

CAF’s Safety and Security team outlined the need for early and effective communication between all stakeholders, stressing that proper planning remains central to maintaining order during high-profile continental encounters.

Clubs were also encouraged to align closely with established protocols to ensure consistency across different venues.

The meeting forms part of CAF’s broader efforts to strengthen safety standards in its club competitions, particularly at a stage of the season where tensions and stakes are significantly higher.

Overall, the engagement was described as a proactive step aimed at guaranteeing smooth, secure, and professionally managed matchdays across both the Champions League and Confederation Cup fixtures this weekend.

In return legs of the Champions League, Mamelodi Sundowns will host Esperance while RS Berkane will host AS FAR.

In the Confederation Cup, Zamalek will host CR Belouizdad while USM Alger will welcome OC Safi.