The Confederation of African Football (CAF) have dismissed Orlando Pirates’ complaint against Saint-Eloi Lupopo for fielding ineligible players in their Second preliminary match.
The Buccaneers were knocked out of the continental competition by Lupopo on penalties after their two-legged tie ended 3-3.
Pirates’ protest stems from the use of two players, Henoc Molia and Ramos Kashala Wanet, while they also alleged that Lupopo coach Guy Bukasa should not have been allowed to sit on the bench as a result of a suspension from a DR Congo Under-20 clash.
Lupopo next face Mamelodi Sundowns in their CAF Champions League group stage encounter this weekend.
A club statement read: “Saint Lupopo has secured a decisive administrative victory following the decision rendered by CAF.
“CAF rejected the complaint filed by South Africa’s Orlando Pirates and confirmed the eligibility of players Molia and Kashala, who were properly registered. CAF also clarified that the presence of coach Guy Bukasa on the bench during the match cannot be sanctioned against Lupopo.
“However, the Disciplinary Committee upheld the six-month suspension of coach Guy Bukasa Misakabu for the U20 affair, along with a fine.
“Furthermore, following our club’s complaint against Orlando Pirates, CAF imposed financial sanctions on the South African club:
“$5,000 [just over R85 000] for denying FC Saint Eloi Lupopo the necessary accreditations. “$20,000 [just over R343 000] for spraying chemicals in our team’s locker room.
“This decision reaffirms the victory achieved on the field and strengthens our club’s position in the competition. FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo will continue to defend its interests with the utmost determination.”