Wydad Temara could lose points after suspended player controversy

Wydad Athletic Club could have secured an administrative victory over Wydad Temara after their opening-round defeat if they had lodged an official objection over the eligibility of an opposing player, according to a report by Moroccan newspaper Al-Sabah.

Wydad lost the match 3-1 on the pitch, but the report claims Wydad Temara fielded Imad Babas despite the player being suspended from last season after joining from Amal Al-Jaish Al-Malaki.

However, Wydad did not register an objection on the match sheet, potentially costing them the opportunity to be awarded the three points.

Wydad failed to lodge objection

According to Al-Sabah, the regulations require clubs to raise objections on the referee’s report either before kick-off or during half-time.

Wydad did not do so during the match, meaning they cannot automatically claim the points even if Babas’ participation is subsequently found to have been illegal.

The National League can still open the case and issue a decision within 12 days, before the original result is officially ratified.

But even if Wydad Temara are found guilty of fielding an ineligible player, Wydad would not receive the three points from the fixture.

Wydad Temara face possible sanctions

If the player’s participation is confirmed to have breached the regulations, Wydad Temara could lose the points they earned from the match and have another point deducted from their league tally.

Babas could also receive a further two-match suspension, while the club’s administrative official could be suspended for four matches.

The club would additionally face a fine of 5,000 Moroccan dirhams.

Several parties under scrutiny

The report identified several parties who could bear responsibility for the situation.

Wydad Temara’s administrative director is expected to verify the eligibility of new players before their contracts are approved, rather than only checking their status before they are selected for matches.

Responsibility could also extend to Babas and his former club, who were expected to inform Wydad Temara’s officials about the player’s existing suspension when he moved to the club.

Wydad’s own administrative director, Idriss Merbah, has also been criticised for failing to submit an objection against the opposing players before checking their individual eligibility.

The report noted that clubs commonly take such precautions, particularly at the start of a season when several new players are registered.

League system also questioned

The Professional League was identified as carrying the greatest responsibility because of its role in monitoring player eligibility and disciplinary sanctions.

According to the report, the league should have an electronic system containing updated information on players, including suspensions and whether they are eligible to participate.

The controversy therefore raises questions about the responsibilities of clubs, players, former clubs and the league in ensuring that suspended players do not feature in competitive matches.