CAF Responds to Orlando Pirates’ Protest Against Lupopo

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has addressed Orlando Pirates’ official protest regarding their elimination by FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo in the second preliminary round of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League. The Soweto giants submitted a formal complaint questioning the eligibility of Lupopo’s head coach and two players. Pirates allege that coach Guy Bukasa, who was under a CAF suspension from his tenure with DR Congo’s U20 team, should not have been present on the bench during the tie.

In addition, Pirates claim that player Molia was registered after the transfer window had closed, while Kashala is accused of holding multiple passports, raising further questions about his eligibility. These concerns form the basis of the club’s protest, which has drawn significant attention from fans and media across the continent. The complaint underscores Pirates’ determination to ensure that CAF regulations are strictly enforced in continental competitions.

CAF’s Head of TV and Communications, Lux September, confirmed that the protest is being processed through the organization’s internal judicial channels. “We are aware of these complaints and protests, and they are being processed through the competent structures, the judicial structures at CAF,” September told journalists in Randburg. He emphasized that the judicial process is independent and must be respected, with outcomes determined solely by the relevant bodies.

September clarified the distinction between CAF’s administrative and judicial processes. The administrative side is handling matters as they currently stand, while the judicial structures will make decisions regarding eligibility and compliance. “If and when we will be guided by what the judicial bodies do. When? I don’t know. How? I don’t know. What? I don’t know. It’s an independent process, and we respect that,” he said. CAF’s statement indicates that the matter will take time to resolve, and all parties must await the ruling of the judicial system.

Orlando Pirates’ protest highlights ongoing concerns about rule enforcement in CAF competitions and sets the stage for a possible precedent in future eligibility disputes. Both Pirates and Lupopo now await the outcome, which could impact not only the results of the tie but also broader CAF competition regulations. The coming weeks will be crucial as the judicial bodies review the allegations and determine the next steps.