The off-field dispute between Orlando Pirates and FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo
has intensified, with the Congolese club launching a formal counter-protest
against the South African side. This development turns the preliminary round
clash into a full-blown legal battle, with both clubs now awaiting rulings
from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Lupopo’s complaint alleges serious acts of misconduct by Pirates during the
second leg at Orlando Stadium. The club’s secretary general, Don Jean-Luc
Kapend, stated that their formal case is supported by video evidence.
“For the acts of physical aggression against players, coaches, etc., and
also for spraying toxic substances in the locker rooms, Lupopo has filed a
complaint with CAF seeking the suspension of Orlando Stadium,” Kapend
revealed. “Lupopo’s complaint is supported by more than 10 videos.”
This move signals Lupopo’s firm stance in the dispute, coming just as
Pirates await a judicial review of their own protest. The Buccaneers had
previously challenged the eligibility of Lupopo’s head coach and two
players, alleging a suspended coach and improperly registered players.
A Two-Sided Battle for Reinstatement
Despite the counter-allegations, there remains a strong belief within the
Orlando Pirates camp that their case for reinstatement is compelling. The
club is hopeful that CAF will rule in their favor regarding the player
eligibility issue, a scenario that would see them progress in the
competition at Lupopo’s expense.
This situation draws direct parallels to Mamelodi Sundowns’ 2016
reinstatement into the Champions League, which they ultimately won that
year. Sources close to Pirates believe their documentation on the
registration timelines of Lupopo’s players could be decisive.
Pressure on CAF for a Verdict
The conflicting protests now place the ball firmly in CAF’s court. The
governing body must navigate two separate complaints:
- Pirates’ Protest: Alleging Lupopo fielded ineligible personnel, which
could lead to the Congolese club’s disqualification. - Lupopo’s Protest: Alleging severe misconduct by Pirates, which could
result in sanctions for the club or even a temporary ban for Orlando
Stadium.
With the competition schedule advancing, CAF is under pressure to deliver a
timely and balanced verdict, deciding the fate of both clubs not on the
pitch, but in the courtroom.
