DR Congo giants St Eloi Lupopo are once again in the spotlight after receiving disciplinary sanctions, compounding their troubles just days after their contentious CAF Champions League preliminary round encounter with South Africa’s Orlando Pirates.
Lupopo, who eliminated Orlando Pirates on post-match penalties to advance in the Champions League qualifiers, are facing scrutiny both from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and their own domestic authorities. The controversy surrounding their clash with Pirates has sparked widespread debate, with allegations of rule breaches and administrative misconduct.
Orlando Pirates have officially lodged a complaint with CAF, claiming that Lupopo fielded an ineligible coach and players during the two-legged tie. According to the South African side, Lupopo’s head coach Guy Bukasa was not supposed to be in the dugout due to a prior suspension from CAF, issued following an altercation during an Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations fixture involving South Africa. Pirates also allege that player Henoc Molia was registered outside the official transfer window, while teammate Ramos Khashala Wanet is accused of possessing two different passports.
While CAF investigates the matter, Lupopo’s management has dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated. However, the club’s reputation has taken another hit after being sanctioned by the Congolese league’s disciplinary committee for misconduct in their domestic campaign.
The incident stems from their final league match of the previous season against Maniema Union on June 27, which ended in a goalless draw but was marred by several unsporting incidents. Following a disciplinary review, Djo Issama and Dramane Kambou have been suspended for their next match, while veteran midfielder Patou Kabangu has been cautioned for unprofessional behaviour. Defender Sefu Ngongo faces a four-match suspension for verbally abusing an assistant referee during the heated contest.
These latest sanctions add to the mounting pressure on Lupopo, who are battling to restore their image amid growing regional and continental attention. The club remains adamant that they have complied with all regulations concerning the Champions League tie and expect CAF to dismiss Pirates’ complaint.
Lupopo will now look to put their disciplinary troubles behind them as they focus on their upcoming fixtures, hoping to redirect attention back to their performance on the pitch rather than issues off it.
