The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a four-match ban on spectators attending Zamalek’s home fixtures following a pitch invasion that occurred during their match against Morocco’s RS Berkane. Zamalek secured a 1-0 victory in Cairo, clinching the title on the away-goal rule after the first leg ended 2-1 in favour of Berkane in Morocco.

As a result of the ban, the upcoming CAF Confederation Cup second-leg match between Kenya Police FC and Zamalek, scheduled for Friday, 20th September, at Cairo Stadium, will be played behind closed doors.

Reason Behind the Ban

According to CAF, Zamalek supporters breached security by forcefully entering the VIP section, with some fans even climbing onto the roof of the VIP stand after the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final in Egypt. CAF further stated that the pitch invasion, involving Zamalek fans, staff, extra players, and family members, compromised the prize-giving ceremony. The overcrowding resulted in a poorly executed ceremony, which tarnished CAF’s image and raised concerns about the safety of their staff and officials.

CAF’s disciplinary ruling stated:
“To impose on Zamalek SC the obligation to play behind closed doors during these next four (4) interclub matches of CAF as the host club for failing to provide the necessary security measures for the match in question, as per articles 82, 83, and 100 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.”

Suspended Matches and Financial Penalty

The Disciplinary Board has opted to suspend two of the four matches, provided that Zamalek avoids any similar incidents for the next 12 months. Should Zamalek commit a similar infraction within this period, the suspended two matches will automatically be enforced, in addition to any further penalties CAF may impose.

Furthermore, Zamalek was fined USD 200,000 (ksh25.9) for failing to meet the required security standards.

Opportunity for Kenya Police FC

Kenya Police FC, who lost 1-0 in the first leg at home, will aim to capitalize on Zamalek’s fan ban as they seek to overturn the deficit in Cairo. Without the support of Zamalek’s passionate home crowd, Kenya Police may have a better chance of progressing in the tournament.

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