MC Alger has been handed severe disciplinary sanctions by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following a series of chaotic incidents during their African Champions League quarter-final clash against Orlando Pirates.
The match, which ended in a goalless draw in South Africa, was marred by a series of disruptive events both on and off the pitch.
In response, CAF launched an investigation into the behavior of the Algerian side and has now confirmed a string of punitive measures.
In its official statement, CAF announced that MC Alger will be required to play their next two home matches in African competitions behind closed doors.
The decision follows what CAF described as “chaos caused at the end of the match, the use of smoke bombs, lasers, throwing projectiles, and the behavior of the players and officials.” The club has also been hit with a substantial fine of $140,000.
Alongside the punishment for the club, key figures within the MC Alger setup have also been targeted.
Sports manager Mohamed Khezrouni has received a four-match suspension and a personal fine of $15,000.
Central defender Abdelkader Menzela has been handed a two-match suspension, with one match suspended, after being cited for misconduct during the tense encounter.
CAF had previously issued a letter to MC Alger, inviting the club to submit its version of events before finalising its verdict.
After reviewing all materials and accounts, the disciplinary panel moved swiftly to impose what it termed necessary measures to preserve order and sportsmanship in continental competitions.
The sanctions come as a bitter conclusion to a tumultuous campaign for MC Alger, who exited the tournament at the quarter-final stage.
The club’s early elimination combined with the disciplinary fallout is expected to put further pressure on coach Khaled Benyahia and the club’s leadership, who now face the challenge of regrouping ahead of future tournaments without the support of their fans in home fixtures.
As the dust settles, MC Alger will not only have to reckon with the financial and sporting repercussions of these penalties but also with restoring its image on the continental stage.
The message from CAF is clear: breaches of conduct, regardless of the result on the pitch, will be met with firm and uncompromising action.
