The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed significant penalties on Egyptian club Zamalek SC following incidents of fan disorder during the CAF Super Cup match against Al Ahly on September 28, 2024, in Saudi Arabia. The CAF Disciplinary Board announced these sanctions in a statement released on October 26, 2024.
Zamalek SC has been fined $300,000 for the improper conduct of its team and officials. However, $100,000 of this fine is suspended on the condition that the club avoids similar offenses during the 2024/2025 CAF Inter-Club Competition.
In addition to the club's fine, individual players have also faced disciplinary actions. Nasser Mansy has been suspended for the next three CAF inter-club competition matches and fined $10,000 for making a provocative gesture, violating Article 147 of the CAF Disciplinary Code. Similarly, Mahmoud Abdelrazek Fadlala has received a three-match suspension and a $10,000 fine for unsporting conduct, breaching Article 82 of the code.
These sanctions underscore CAF's commitment to maintaining discipline and sportsmanship within African football. The governing body has consistently taken a firm stance against misconduct. For instance, in December 2024, CR Belouizdad was fined $10,000, with $5,000 suspended, after fans used smoke bombs during a Champions League match against Orlando Pirates. Similarly, AS FAR faced fines totaling $15,000 for fan-related incidents involving smoke bombs and lasers during a game against Mamelodi Sundowns.
CAF’s disciplinary measures serve as a reminder to clubs and supporters about the importance of upholding the integrity of the sport. Fan behavior, as well as that of players and club officials, plays a crucial role in shaping the image and progress of football in Africa. CAF has reiterated that unsportsmanlike actions, whether on the pitch or in the stands, will be met with strict penalties.
As the 2024/2025 CAF Inter-Club Competitions continue, clubs are urged to ensure that both players and fans adhere to the highest standards of conduct. This incident serves as both a warning and an opportunity for football stakeholders across the continent to prioritize discipline, respect, and professionalism in the beautiful game.
For further information or inquiries, stakeholders are encouraged to contact CAF's Communications Department.
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