CAF launches an investigation against Royal Moroccan Football Federation and Congolese Association Football Federation

By Osoro Nyawangah, ABIDJAN Côte d’Ivoire

The CAF has launched an investigation against Royal Moroccan Football Federation (“FRMF”) and Congolese Association Football Federation (“FECOFA” following post-match incidents during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 fixture between Morocco and Democratic Republic of Congo.  

CAF will not make any further comment on this matter until the investigation is complete.

A melee broke out between Morocco and Congo players and coaching staff at the end of their 1-1 draw at the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday.

It started after the game when Morocco coach Walid Regragui approached Congo captain Chancel Mbemba, who had already received a yellow card for arguing with the referee. 

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Mbemba clearly disagreed with what Regragui said and made signs for the video referee as players from both teams rushed in and officials struggled to control the pushing and shoving that ensued.

“It’s the heat. It’s a big match between two big nations,” Congo coach Sébastien Desabre said. “It’s very hot. Very, very, very hot.”

Last week, CAF Disciplinary Board charged Tanzania Football Federation (“TFF”) and Head Coach of Tanzania, Adel Amrouche for bringing CAF into disrepute following comments and allegations he made in the media about Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).

The Disciplinary Board found Mr Amrouche guilty in terms of Articles 82, 83, 84 and 131 of CAF’s Disciplinary Code and was given an eight-match suspension.

Tanzanian Football Federation was fined USD 10,000.

RMFF had complained that Amrouche mounted accusations that the North African country has an influence within CAF in pre-arranging match results and selection of referees.