CAF sanctions USM Alger following jersey dispute in CAF Confederation Cup semifinal
Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 25.04.24. | 13:33
The first leg fixture pitting USM Alger against RS Berkane was not played following a protracted jersey dispute
In a surprising turn of events, the CAF Confederation Cup first leg semi-final fixture between USM Alger and RS Berkane, slated for 21 April in Algiers, Algeria, was marred by controversy as RS Berkane's arrival at their dressing room revealed an unexpected jersey switch.
The disagreement stemmed from RS Berkane's discovery of new jerseys without the map of Morocco. The jerseys they initially intended to use allegedly included the occupied Western Sahara region within its borders, something that did not seat well with USM Alger. This move was interpreted as a politically motivated action and a clear provocation by the visiting team.
RS Berkane checked in their dressing room only to find this shirts hanged without Morocco’s map on it.
— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) April 21, 2024
They said they won’t wear it for the game which starts in next 50 minutes.
At this stage, I don’t know what to say about African football again. 😬#cafccwithmicky… pic.twitter.com/CdU1jw13Zd
In response, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) swiftly intervened, convening the CAF Interclub Competitions and Management of the Club Licensing System Committee to address the issue. Following deliberations, the committee made the following decisions;-
1. Forfeiture and Sanction: USM Alger was sanctioned with a forfeit of 0-3 for their involvement in the jersey controversy. This decision was made to uphold the integrity of the competition and deter any future attempts to politicize football events.
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2. Referral to Disciplinary Board: The case was forwarded to the Disciplinary Board for further investigation and the potential imposition of additional sanctions. CAF aims to ensure that such incidents are dealt with decisively and in accordance with established regulations.
3. Second leg to proceed: Despite the setback, the scheduled second leg fixture between RS Berkane and USM Alger at the Berkane Municipal Stadium on April 28, 2024, remains unaffected. Both teams are expected to adhere to the rules and spirit of fair play in the upcoming encounter.
