CAF delays disciplinary decisions over continental competition incidents

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has decided to postpone disciplinary decisions relating to several incidents recorded during recent CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup matches.

The continent’s football governing body has opted against taking immediate action as it seeks to avoid disruptions ahead of key remaining fixtures, particularly the second leg clash between AS FAR and Mamelodi Sundowns.

A number of cases are currently under review following crowd disturbances and matchday misconduct across various continental fixtures.

Among the incidents being assessed is the CAF Confederation Cup encounter between OC Safi and USM Alger, where delays to the match and supporters entering the pitch were reported.

CAF is also reviewing incidents involving Zamalek SC and USM Alger during both the home and away legs of their continental tie. The matches reportedly featured the use of flares and laser pointers, issues that often attract disciplinary scrutiny from the governing body.

Another case under consideration stems from the CAF Champions League meeting between Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR, where crowd-related disturbances in the stands were observed.

Despite the seriousness of the incidents, CAF has chosen to suspend disciplinary meetings and delay any sanctions for the time being.

The decision is understood to be driven by the organisation’s desire to ensure that the concluding stages of the competitions proceed without unnecessary distractions or administrative complications.

CAF is particularly keen to avoid rulings that could result in matches being played behind closed doors or trigger other sanctions capable of affecting the atmosphere and competitive balance of decisive fixtures.

With the second leg between AS FAR and Sundowns still to be played in Rabat, the governing body appears focused on preserving the smooth running of the competitions before issuing final verdicts.

All disciplinary outcomes and any potential sanctions are now expected to be announced after the completion of the second leg in Rabat, where CAF will conclude its review of the reported incidents.