Following a complaint filed by Esperance Tunis against Al Ahly in the wake of the CAF Champions League final first leg played in Egypt on Friday, the continent’s football governing body rendered its verdict on Monday, largely in favour the Tunisian side.
Ahly striker Oualid Azaro, who is seen in video replays of the game tearing his jersey to influence the referee in awarding a second penalty to the Egyptians, gets a two-match suspension and thus will miss the return leg.
Al Ahly will pay a fine of $20,000 in accordance with article 12.1(b) of CAF regulations.
Al Ahly’s coach, Patrice Carteron, will be invited to appear before CAF Disciplinary Board for a hearing regarding allegations of unsporting behaviour.
The game, played at the Borg El Arab Stadium, ended 3-1 in favour of hosts Ahly. However, it was overshadowed by controversial refereeing calls, especially the two penalties awarded to the Red Devils.
Contrary to reports, the referee of the game Mahdy Ebead, from Algeria, was not suspended by CAF.
Al Ahly board has requested protection for its players and fans in the return fixture in Rades, Tunisia on November 9 following threats from Tunisian fans on social media.
Ahly, the most successful team in the competition, are hoping to clinch a 9th title while Esperance want to celebrate their 100th anniversary with a 3rd CAF Champions League title.
