In a move that could be regarded as political interference after the decision by the government., Congolese football could be facing hefty sanctions that may include suspension by the world football governing body FIFA.
The Democratic Republic of Congo government has announced its decision to withdraw the national soccer team from Confederation of African Football (CAF) sanctioned competitions and activities ahead of 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations third-place play-off match in Ivory Coast tonight.
Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya revealed this morning at the 124th Council of Ministers Meeting that the state had taken this decision following alleged mistreatment of Congolese fans at the 1-0 semi-final defeat to Ivory Coast in Abidjan last Wednesday.
“To respond to this outrageous attitude, our national team will no longer associate, until further notice, with any activity or solidarity initiative carried out by CAF” Muyaya said.
Congolese fans were reportedly mistreated at the Olympique Stadium of Ebimpé in Abidjan for displaying messages of solidarity to victims of the ongoing violent clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 Rebels.
The decision by government now puts into doubt the Leopards’ participation in tonight’s third-place play-off match against South Africa set for the Fèlix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.
