CAF Cracks the Whip: Fines and Sanctions Handed Down After Club Competition Incidents

• Mamelodi Sundowns fined US$100,000 (R1.8 million) and ordered to enforce stricter security measures for upcoming fixtures due to crowd control failures
• Orlando Pirates penalised US$70,000 (R1.3 million) for improper player conduct and inadequate match-day security provisions
• North African clubs heavily sanctioned, including Esperance (US$150,000 fine) and MC Alger (two closed-door matches, US$40,000 fine, and a four-match suspension for assistant coach Mohamed Khezrouni)

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued a series of heavy sanctions to several clubs following disciplinary breaches during recent inter-club fixtures. The decisions affect South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, alongside North African clubs Esperance and MC Alger.

Sundowns penalised for crowd control breaches

Mamelodi Sundowns were fined US$100,000 (roughly R1.8 million) after being found guilty of failing to maintain adequate crowd control during a recent match. CAF has also ordered the Pretoria-based club to implement stricter security protocols for all upcoming fixtures in the competition. The ruling comes amid growing concerns over supporter conduct and the safety of match venues across the continent. CAF emphasised the need for clubs to take full responsibility for ensuring secure environments.

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Pirates fined over player conduct and security failures

Orlando Pirates were hit with combined fines totalling US$70,000 (approximately R1.3 million). The sanctions were imposed for two separate breaches: the improper conduct of their players and the club’s failure to provide sufficient security at their home venue. The disciplinary committee noted that such infractions could have been avoided with more proactive planning and oversight. CAF has called on all participating clubs to reinforce behavioural expectations at all levels, both on and off the pitch.

North African clubs also face consequences

Tunisian giants Esperance were handed a substantial fine of US$150,000 (about R2.8 million) following incidents involving their supporters. While details of the behaviour were not disclosed in full, CAF stated that the punishment was in line with repeated misconduct. Meanwhile, MC Alger of Algeria were dealt a multi-layered penalty. The club must play two of their upcoming fixtures behind closed doors and pay a fine of US$40,000 (R750,000) due to unruly supporter behaviour. In addition, assistant coach Mohamed Khezrouni received a four-match suspension and a separate fine of US$100,000 (R1.8 million) for misconduct.

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CAF issues final warning

The sanctions signal a broader push for accountability within African football, particularly as clubs from across the continent continue to compete on the biggest stages.

CAF 5-year rankings (2025):

Briefly News previously reported that South African football giants Mamelodi Sundowns have climbed to 2nd place in the CAF 5-year club rankings for 2025, just behind Egypt’s Al Ahly, highlighting their dominance in African football through consistent Champions League performances and major investments.

Orlando Pirates also made the top 15 despite fewer continental appearances, while Stellenbosch FC broke into the rankings at 21st, marking a significant milestone in their CAF debut.

These rankings reflect South Africa’s growing influence and depth in African club football.

Source: Briefly News