CAF urged to investigate alleged pre-match ritual after ASPL 2000 and Jwaneng Galaxy draw

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has been urged to launch an investigation into alleged pre-match misconduct after ASPL 2000 accused Jwaneng Galaxy of carrying out unusual actions around the pitch before their Confederation Cup preliminary-round match ended in a 1-1 draw.

The Mauritian side said it had gathered evidence and was preparing to submit a formal report to African football’s governing body following scenes involving members of the Botswana club’s delegation before kick-off.

According to ASPL 2000, individuals associated with Jwaneng Galaxy were seen sprinkling an unidentified substance around the goalposts and in the corner areas of the pitch before the match began.

The incident prompted speculation among some spectators, with questions raised over whether the act was linked to traditional spiritual rituals commonly referred to in parts of African football as “maraboutage” – a term used to describe beliefs that supernatural practices can influence sporting outcomes.

The match itself finished 1-1, leaving the tie evenly balanced heading into the return leg.

ASPL 2000 have not publicly identified the substance involved but insist they have collected evidence they believe warrants an official review by CAF.

The club is expected to ask the governing body to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether any competition regulations were breached.

CAF has not yet commented publicly on the allegations.

If a complaint is formally lodged, the Confederation Cup organisers will be responsible for assessing the available evidence before deciding whether disciplinary proceedings or further investigations are necessary.

Allegations involving alleged spiritual practices have surfaced periodically in African football over the years, although proving misconduct under competition rules has often depended on the strength of the available evidence rather than speculation surrounding such rituals.

For now, the focus remains on CAF’s next move as it considers whether the reported pre-match scenes require official scrutiny.