Orlando Pirates have been hit with a US$25,000 fine by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following complaints lodged by Congolese side St. Eloi Lupopo. The sanctions relate to their CAF Champions League second preliminary round clash in September 2025, a tie that was already surrounded by controversy on and off the field.
Why Pirates Were Fined
CAF issued two separate penalties against the Buccaneers:
US$5,000 for failing to provide Lupopo with the required matchday accreditations. US$20,000 for an incident involving a chemical substance that was reportedly sprayed inside the visiting team’s locker room at Orlando Stadium.
CAF’s disciplinary panel reviewed the complaints and concluded that Orlando Pirates were in breach of competition regulations, resulting in the combined US$25,000 fine.
Pirates’ Protest Dismissed
Adding to their disappointment, Orlando Pirates’ own counter-complaint against Lupopo was dismissed. Pirates had challenged the eligibility of two Lupopo players and questioned whether the Congolese club’s coach should have been allowed on the bench during the match. CAF ruled that all Lupopo personnel were eligible and that there were no violations warranting sanctions.
How Lupopo Advanced
The second-leg match at Orlando Stadium ended in high tension. Pirates pushed hard to overturn the tie, and although they managed to force a deadlock over two legs, Lupopo eventually progressed on away goals after a 1–0 aggregate result.
A Blow On and Off the Pitch
This outcome leaves Orlando Pirates facing a double setback:
Elimination from the CAF Champions League. Financial penalties following the disciplinary ruling.
Meanwhile, Lupopo move forward with momentum, backed by both their performance on the pitch and their successful administrative challenge.
What This Means Going Forward
The ruling places pressure on Pirates to address operational and compliance issues, especially regarding matchday logistics and protocol standards. With the club already scrutinized for past disciplinary matters in continental competitions, this latest sanction raises further questions about internal processes and matchday management.
For Lupopo, the decision is a major confidence boost as they begin their CAF Champions League group-stage campaign, reinforced by both on-field determination and off-field governance wins.
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