MC Alger’s elimination from the CAF Champions League has taken a dramatic turn after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) initiated disciplinary proceedings against the club over post-match incidents in Johannesburg.
Following a goalless second leg against South Africa’s Orlando Pirates on Wednesday—which sealed MCA’s quarter-final exit after a 1-0 first-leg defeat in Algiers—the North African side is now under investigation for events that occurred off the pitch.
CAF’s Disciplinary Committee formally notified the Algerian club on Friday, citing reports of serious misconduct involving members of the MCA delegation.
According to journalist Samir Lamari, five key points are under scrutiny, based on the match delegate and referee reports.
Among the most serious allegations is an accusation of attempted aggression towards match officials and Orlando Pirates staff.
The reports also name team manager Mohamed Khazrouni in connection with an alleged physical assault on a stadium security officer.
In addition, midfielder Abdelkader Menezla is implicated in a broader altercation involving multiple individuals.
In a statement released shortly after receiving CAF’s correspondence, MC Alger vehemently denied any involvement in violence and reaffirmed its adherence to the principles of fair play and sportsmanship.
“Mouloudia Club d’Alger firmly rejects any form of violence.
We are committed to defending the club’s integrity and values and will pursue all legal avenues available to us,” the statement read.
The club further pledged to fully cooperate with CAF’s disciplinary process.
It now has until April 14 to submit its official defense to the governing body.
CAF has also issued a similar notification to Orlando Pirates, who must likewise respond to allegations concerning their role in the post-match disorder.
While MCA’s hopes of continental glory were dashed on the field, the fallout from the Johannesburg fixture may yet bring more challenges.
The outcome of the investigation could lead to sanctions that impact the club’s future participation in CAF competitions or incur further disciplinary penalties.
The situation casts a shadow over what had been a promising campaign for the Algerian giants and marks a sobering conclusion to their journey in this season’s Champions League.
