The CAF Champions League quarter-finals began on Tuesday with four first-leg encounters, delivering thrilling action and decisive moments.
However, alongside the on-pitch drama, complaints have surfaced regarding officiating, fan treatment, and logistical issues, raising tensions ahead of the return fixtures.
Espérance protests fan treatment in South Africa
Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis have voiced their dissatisfaction over the treatment of their supporters during their match against Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa.
Reports suggest an altercation took place between fans at the end of the game, leading Espérance to consider lodging a formal complaint with CAF.
The club has accused the hosts of failing to ensure adequate security measures, leaving some of their traveling supporters vulnerable.
While no official statement has been issued by Sundowns or CAF, the Tunisian side is expected to push for an investigation.
Al Ahly questions refereeing decisions
Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, the defending champions, have raised concerns over the officiating in their clash against Al Hilal of Sudan.
The match, overseen by a Chadian referee, left Ahly officials dissatisfied with certain key decisions.
The club has hinted at the possibility of escalating the matter to CAF, arguing that questionable calls influenced the outcome.
Refereeing in African club competitions has often been a source of contention, and Al Ahly’s complaints add to a growing list of disputes over match officiating.
AS FAR criticizes Pyramids FC over fan restrictions
AS FAR Rabat has accused Pyramids FC of preventing some of their supporters from entering the stadium for their fixture in Egypt.
The Moroccan club has condemned what they describe as an unfair restriction, insisting that their traveling fans were denied entry without clear justification.
This incident is likely to further intensify the return leg in Morocco, with AS FAR determined to ensure their supporters receive better treatment in their home fixture.
CAF expected to intervene
With multiple clubs expressing grievances, CAF is under pressure to address the concerns raised.
The governing body has yet to issue an official response but is expected to review the complaints before the second-leg matches take place.
The controversy surrounding the quarter-finals sets the stage for highly charged return encounters, where tensions both on and off the pitch could play a significant role in shaping the tournament’s outcome.
