DR Congo: FC Saint Éloi Lupopo Fined After Deadly Match Incidents
FC Saint Éloi Lupopo, one of DR Congo’s top-flight football clubs, has been fined $5,500 following tragic events that unfolded during a Division 1 match against Sanga Balende, held at Kibasa Maliba Stadium in Lubumbashi.
The match, part of the 6th day of the league, ended in a 0-1 defeat for Lupopo, but was marred by violent clashes between supporters and security forces, resulting in two fans being shot dead and another trampled to death in the chaos. Around ten others were injured.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president, Issa Hayatou, strongly condemned the violence:
“Football must remain a moment of communion, fraternity, and sharing, of celebration and joy in line with the legendary culture of hospitality.”
The Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) moved swiftly, holding Lupopo responsible for the organizational failure. The club has been ordered to pay:
$5,000 to cover costs related to the organization of the match (including fees owed to the opposing team, the stadium, and organizers),
$500 as a fine for the throwing of projectiles by fans.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns around stadium safety and crowd control in African football. FECOFA and CAF have called for stricter measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
