Governing body delays decision after heated hearing
Al-Hilal Omdurman have confirmed that the Confederation of African Football will issue a final decision on their complaint against RS Berkane on Friday, following a tense hearing over player eligibility.
The Sudanese club lodged a protest concerning the participation of Berkane player Hamza Moussaoui during their African Champions League quarter-final encounter. The case centres on allegations that the player was ineligible to feature in the tie.
According to Al-Hilal, a session held by Confederation of African Football on Thursday saw extensive arguments presented by both sides before a decision was deferred.
In a statement released via the club’s official Facebook account, Al-Hilal detailed the proceedings.
“The session regarding Al-Hilal’s case at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) was held this afternoon, with the participation of the club’s Secretary-General Hassan Ali Issa and lawyer Pedro. The session witnessed heated deliberations between the parties, and our club’s lawyer presented several objections, set some conditions, and submitted urgent demands. Accordingly, it was decided to postpone the session until tomorrow, during which a final decision will be issued in the case.”
Doping ban adds weight to dispute
The dispute follows communication from CAF to Berkane indicating that Moussaoui had been handed a two-year suspension from all football-related activities due to the use of banned substances. This development has intensified scrutiny over his involvement in the match.
Al-Hilal’s complaint hinges on whether the player should have been allowed to participate, raising the possibility of disciplinary consequences depending on the governing body’s ruling.
Dramatic quarter-final outcome under spotlight
The controversy comes after a dramatic conclusion to the quarter-final tie between the two sides. Berkane secured qualification for the semi-finals with a 1-0 victory, scoring in the final moments of the match in what was described as a chaotic ending.
The result followed a 1-1 draw in the first leg, played at the Municipal Stadium of Berkane in Morocco, leaving the tie finely balanced before the decisive encounter.
The Moroccan side’s progression marks a significant milestone, as it represents their first appearance in the semi-finals of the African Champions League.
Semi-final preparations continue amid uncertainty
Despite the unresolved case, Berkane are scheduled to face AS FAR in the semi-finals, after the Royal Army eliminated Pyramids in their quarter-final clash.
The first leg of that encounter is set to take place on Saturday, placing additional urgency on CAF’s pending verdict, which could have implications for the competition’s progression.
High-stakes ruling expected
Friday’s decision is expected to bring clarity to a dispute that has cast a shadow over one of the tournament’s most dramatic ties. With progression, eligibility, and disciplinary integrity all in question, CAF’s ruling will be closely watched across African football as both clubs await a definitive outcome.
