Congo Appeal Prompts CAF Investigation into Rwanda’s CAN Qualification
A surprising development has emerged in the qualifiers for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as Congo could be reinstated into the group stage after raising questions over the eligibility of a Rwandan player.
According to L’Équipe, the Congolese Football Federation (Fecofoot) has formally lodged a complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), challenging Rwanda’s use of striker Dady Birori during their qualifying campaign.
Birori, who featured for Rwanda in their second-round victory over Congo last month, is at the centre of controversy due to allegations that he is using dual identities. The player is also registered under the name Agiti Taddy Etekiama at Congolese club AS Vita Club, based in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The key issue lies in discrepancies between the two identities, with different birthdates listed for each. Fecofoot has argued that this constitutes a breach of CAF regulations, and the continental football body has confirmed it is now reviewing the case.
CAF is expected to deliver its verdict by 20 August. Should the complaint be upheld, Rwanda would be disqualified, and Congo—initially eliminated—would be reinstated into Group A of the qualification stage. That group also includes Nigeria, South Africa, and Sudan.
This twist has thrown a shadow over Rwanda’s progress, particularly as they were seen to have earned their place on the pitch. However, the use of ineligible or improperly registered players has previously resulted in CAF imposing sanctions in similar cases.
For Congo, led by veteran coach Claude Le Roy, a return to the qualifiers would offer a dramatic second chance at reaching the 2015 finals in Morocco. The Red Devils had originally bowed out of the competition after losing to Rwanda 4–3 on aggregate.
CAF’s decision in the coming days will determine whether the qualification campaign proceeds as planned or faces further reshuffling. With the group stage scheduled to begin in early September, a swift resolution is crucial.
