CAF's statement on chaotic Morocco vs DR Congo encounter officiated by Kenyan referee

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AFCON 2023 CAF's statement on chaotic Morocco vs DR Congo encounter officiated by Kenyan referee

Festus Chuma 16:34 - 23.01.2024

CAF investigates post-match violence between Morocco versus Congo match at Africa Cup of Nations, probing the conduct of players and officials.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has initiated an investigation into the post-match violence that erupted following a recent game between Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at the Africa Cup of Nations.

This move comes after a contentious 1-1 draw overseen by Kenyan referee Peter Waweru Kamaku, which concluded in a chaotic melee involving players and staff from both teams.

The trouble began after the match's conclusion, when Morocco's coach, Walid Regragui, approached DRC's captain Chancel Mbemba.

This interaction quickly escalated, leading to a heated confrontation that involved several team members and officials.

The incident continued as the teams exited the field, spilling into the players' tunnel.

Mbemba, who had received a yellow card during the match for disputing with the Kenyan referee, later suggested to journalists that Regragui had insulted him.

"I’m keeping my silence, it’s better. Everybody knows me, I respect everyone … but I never thought I’d hear that word from the coach, that it would come from his mouth,” he stated, hinting at the gravity of the alleged remarks without divulging specifics.

The CAF's decision to investigate follows concerns about the escalating tensions and the role of match officials in managing on-field disputes.

A statement from CAF emphasized their commitment to ensuring fair play and sportsmanship, stating:

"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."

However, CAF has maintained a stance of discretion until the investigation concludes, emphasizing that no further comments will be made during this period. 

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