Sudanese football club Al Hilal SC has formally taken a dispute to Confederation of African Football (CAF) just days before the decisive stages of the CAF Champions League, raising concerns over the potential impact on the tournament’s schedule.
CAF confirmed it has received the case and has set a hearing date for 9 April, indicating the matter will be reviewed as tensions build ahead of the semi-final matches. The timing of the dispute has added uncertainty to preparations for the final rounds of Africa’s premier club competition.
Al Hilal, however, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the handling of the case so far. The club has questioned the transparency and fairness of the process, stating it has not been given access to the positions of their opponents, RS Berkane, or the player at the centre of the dispute. According to the Sudanese side, this lack of information significantly limits their ability to prepare an effective argument.
The club has also raised objections بشأن the appointment of the official chosen to oversee the case. Al Hilal noted that the same individual had previously ruled on a related matter, delivering a decision the club strongly opposed. This, they argue, casts doubt on the impartiality of the proceedings.
With the semi-finals approaching, Al Hilal has issued an ultimatum to CAF, demanding a ruling before 11 April. The club has warned that if a decision is not reached within this timeframe, it believes the semi-final fixture involving AS FAR and RS Berkane should be postponed until the dispute is resolved.
The Sudanese club has gone further, signalling its willingness to escalate the matter beyond CAF. It has warned that if a timely and satisfactory outcome is not achieved, it will take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, the highest authority for resolving international sporting disputes.
The developing situation has cast a shadow over the closing stages of the Champions League. Any delay or legal intervention could disrupt the tournament’s schedule, potentially affecting teams, organisers and supporters alike.
CAF has yet to comment in detail on the concerns raised by Al Hilal, beyond confirming that the case will be heard. As the hearing date approaches, attention will focus on whether a resolution can be reached swiftly enough to avoid impacting the semi-final fixtures.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications, not only for the clubs directly involved but also for the integrity and smooth running of one of African football’s most prestigious competitions.
