CS Constantine has been mandated to play its next six matches behind closed doors, with three of those fixtures away from their home ground. This decision follows the serious incidents that disrupted the match against USM Algiers on Monday evening.
The first of these matches is set to take place on Friday, during the 28th day of Ligue 1 Mobilis, against MC Oran, a team fighting for survival in the league.
The sanctions have forced CS Constantine to seek an alternative venue to host the crucial match against MC Oran, also known as the Hamraoua.
Initially, CS Constantine attempted to secure stadiums in Annaba and Batna. However, local authorities in these cities declined their requests, citing the unavailability of the May 19, 1956 Stadium in Annaba and the November 1 Stadium in Batna.
Consequently, the Amar Hammam Stadium in Khenchela was selected as the venue for the upcoming match.
This decision has not been well-received by MC Oran. On Wednesday evening, the management of the El Hamri club filed a formal complaint with the LFP, objecting to the choice of the Khenchela venue.
The primary concerns highlighted include the lack of suitable accommodation in Khenchela, as the only available lodging has been fully booked by CS Constantine.
Additionally, the 150-kilometer distance between Constantine and Khenchela poses logistical challenges, potentially delaying the Oran team’s return to prepare for their subsequent match against MC El Bayadh on Tuesday.
In their complaint, MC Oran’s management expressed their dissatisfaction with the late change in venue, arguing that it disrupts their meticulously planned schedule, which initially included travel to Constantine and then to Khenchela, before returning to Oran.
The club’s administration has suggested they may refuse to play in Khenchela due to these disruptions and logistical hurdles.
As both teams prepare for Friday’s clash, the decision to host the match in Khenchela remains a contentious issue, adding another layer of complexity to an already tense situation.
The outcome of this fixture will be crucial, not only for the teams involved but also in setting a precedent for how similar situations might be handled in the future by the LFP.
