By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC have officially lodged a complaint with CAF, following their Champions League exit on Friday night.
In a letter addressed to CAF on Saturday, Yanga – as the East African club is simply called – pleaded with CAF to investigate what they deemed was “a possible administrative error and match-fixing”.
“We, the undersigned, representing Young Africans Sports Club hereby submit this contest in accordance with Rule XVI of the CAF Champions League Regulations as amended from time to time,” read the letter.
“The contest pertains to a possible administrative error and match-fixing incident during the quarter-final match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Young Africans Sports Club played on the 5th April 2024 at Tshwane-Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa.”
“In light of the above, we urge Caf to take appropriate remedial actions.
“This may include but are not limited to Conducting a detailed review of the match footage and VAR records, Holding accountable any individuals found responsible for misconduct or negligence, Implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in future matches, as well as any other relief you may consider fair and appropriate to grant under Rule XVI [3] of CAF Champions League Regulations, as amended from time to time.
“We remain committed to upholding the principles of fair play, transparency, and integrity in football, and trust that CAF will take decisive steps to address this matter and uphold the values of the sport.
Sundowns won 3-2 on penalties after the two teams finished in a goalless stalemate on aggregate.
The semis will be played on home and away basis on 19-20 April 2024 (first leg) with the Second Leg scheduled for 26-27 April 2024.
In the first semi-final, Al Ahly (Egypt) will play TP Mazembe (DR Congo) in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Esperance Sportive de Tunis will play Mamelodi Sundowns in the second semi-final.