MC Alger has been hit with significant penalties by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ahead of their opening group-stage match in the CAF Champions League against TP Mazembe. This comes after violent incidents marred their clash against US Monastir in the second preliminary round back in September.
During the match, which was held at the newly inaugurated Ali La Pointe Stadium in Douera, clashes between fans and police led to property damage, including broken seats and the use of smoke bombs on the pitch.
Things got heated up in the dressing room between MC Alger and US Monastir.
🎥 I Nessma Sport 👏 #cafclwithmicky #totalenergiescafcl pic.twitter.com/ldxH7mcQej
— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) September 22, 2024
Tragically, a young supporter lost their life amid the chaos, prompting widespread condemnation.
After a thorough investigation, CAF imposed a four-match ban on MC Alger, mandating that the club play behind closed doors for their next four home games.
Two of these matches are suspended, pending further evaluation, while the club also faces a hefty fine of $50,000.
As a result, MC Alger will play their upcoming home fixtures against Young Africans on December 7 and Al-Hilal on December 14 without the presence of their passionate fanbase.
The Algerian club has appealed the decision, arguing that the incidents were caused by security lapses rather than fan misconduct.
La Commission de discipline de la CAF a infligé de lourdes sanctions sur le MC Alger, suite aux incidents ayant émaillé le match face à l’US Monastir le 22 septembre dernier https://t.co/pwGDJExXdm
— Algerie360 (@Algerie360) November 24, 2024
This ruling represents a significant blow for MC Alger, as they will begin their Champions League group campaign in front of an empty stadium, missing the support of their loyal followers.
The club awaits a response to their appeal, and the case remains ongoing.
