Tensions rise at Loftus Versfeld Stadium during the CAF Champions League quarterfinal between Mamelodi Sundowns and Espérance de Tunis, as both clubs respond to reports of violence involving their supporters.
Image: Itumeleng English/ Independent NewspaperS
The quarterfinal clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Espérance de Tunis in the CAF Champions League at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on April 1 was marred by violent incidents, prompting both clubs to issue statements addressing the unrest.
Espérance de Tunis said those who travelled from Tunisia to South Africa were safe.
"All our supporters are fine and have returned to Johannesburg safe and sound," the club stated.
"The club's management has ensured to secure and provide the necessary transport to leave the stadium and take them to the train station."
The club also confirmed that three fans who were taken to the hospital were "in a stable condition and are in the process of receiving treatment."
Espérance further stated that it is compiling a comprehensive report, including documentation of incidents of violence at the Pretoria stadium, to submit to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
"We are preparing a complete file containing all the documents and evidence that prove our fans were exposed to violence in Pretoria. We will send it to the African Football Confederation to ensure that the necessary measures are taken." the statement read.
Despite the incident, Espérance reaffirmed its faith in its fans and players, urging them to rally behind the team in the return leg as they aim for a spot in the semifinals.
"We have great confidence in our fans, who will be present in large numbers in the return match to support the players and help them achieve the result that ensures us qualification."
In its official statement Mamelodi Sundowns expressed deep disappointment over the unruly behaviour at the match.
"Mamelodi Sundowns is deeply saddened by the unruly behaviour that was displayed at its CAF Champions League quarterfinal match against Espérance de Tunis at Loftus Versfeld Stadium," the club said.
Sundowns highlighted videos circulating on social media, which depicted damage to the stadium and Sundowns fans retreating from violence allegedly initiated against them.
"Videos circulating on social media depict malicious damage to the stadium and the Mamelodi Sundowns supporters retreating from violence allegedly initiated against them, including flares and pepper spray when the incident started."
The club announced that it is awaiting a full report from the match commissioner and pledged to cooperate with CAF in the investigation.
"Sundowns awaits a full report from the Match Commissioner and is committed to cooperating with CAF to finalise its investigation ahead of the return leg." the club said.
Despite maintaining that their supporters did not initiate the violence, Sundowns extended an apology to Espérance and its supporters.
"Following our African culture of compassion and empathy (our African culture of Ubuntu), we are required to apologise to Espérance de Tunis and its supporters as the unruly behaviour took place at our home stadium, despite the videos and facts indicating that the Sundowns supporters did not initiate the unruly behaviour."
As both clubs prepare for the crucial return fixture, the spotlight remains on CAF to assess the situation and determine the necessary course of action to prevent further unrest in African football.
IOL Sport
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