Violence in Lubumbashi raises concerns for Club Africain ahead of TP Mazembe clash

Club Africain are taking precautionary measures ahead of their upcoming clash against TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, scheduled for next Saturday, in the first leg of the second round of the CAF Champions League. This decision comes in light of the violent incidents that occurred at the Lubumbashi stadium in recent days.

Before the team's delegation travels to the Democratic Republic of the Congo tomorrow, Wednesday, Club Africain's management has expressed concerns about the security conditions surrounding the match, after the same stadium witnessed a crowd invasion and incidents that resulted in injuries and fainting during a friendly match between former players of TP Mazembe and Saint-Éloi Lupopo last Sunday.

Following recent events, the management of TP Mazembe Stadium has decided to suspend all sporting and celebratory events within the facility until further notice, in a move that reflects the seriousness of what occurred during the exhibition match.

Tunisian and Congolese media reported on Tuesday varying accounts regarding the possibility of moving the match between Club Africain and TP Mazembe to another stadium, along with news about the Tunisian club's intention to request enhanced security for its delegation and fans.

However, a source close to the management of Club Africain confirmed to Eram News that the match will take place as scheduled at the TP Mazembe stadium in Lubumbashi, denying any decision to change its venue.

The source clarified that the club's management is following all details related to the team's trip, accommodation, and training, leading up to the match, emphasizing that the safety of the players, delegation members, and fans attending the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a top priority.

He added that recent events necessitate more caution, confirming that the club has not yet sent any official correspondence to the Confederation of African Football, but is in contact with its officials to monitor developments regarding the safety of the delegation before, during, and after the match.

Violence erupted during a friendly match at the Lubumbashi stadium after a content creator known for his videos distributing money entered the pitch, leading to chaos as thousands of fans stormed the field, according to circulating reports.

The first leg between Club Africain and TP Mazembe is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, in Lubumbashi, with the return leg taking place at Rades Stadium in Tunisia on Sunday, October 25, to determine the qualification for the next round of the continental competition.