Orlando Pirates’ CAF Complaint Opens Door for Possible Champions League Return — and a Group Clash with Sundowns

Orlando Pirates’ exit from the CAF Champions League might not be final after all. The Buccaneers’ formal protest against DR Congo’s FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo has now been officially acknowledged by CAF, opening a potential path for their reinstatement — and a possible group-stage showdown with Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Soweto giants were knocked out in the third preliminary round, but they argue that Lupopo fielded ineligible personnel, including head coach Guy Bukasa and players Henoc Molia and Wanet Kashala.

⚖️ CAF Confirms Case Is Under Review

CAF’s Head of Media Relations, Luxolo September, confirmed to Soccer Laduma that the complaint is now before CAF’s judicial structures, which are handling the matter independently.

“We are aware of these complaints and protests — they have been received and are being processed through the competent judicial structures at CAF,” said September.

“It’s an independent process that we respect. The administrative side has to deal with the status quo as it is, but the judicial process will determine the next steps. When or how it concludes, we don’t yet know.”

This means Pirates’ elimination remains under legal review, and any ruling in their favour could see them reinstated into the competition — potentially altering the already-drawn group stage.

⚽ A Shock Comeback Could Set Up a Derby of a Different Kind

If reinstated, Pirates could find themselves placed in the CAF Champions League group stage, possibly in the same group as reigning DStv Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns, creating a blockbuster South African continental clash.

Sundowns were drawn into Group C alongside Al Hilal (Sudan), MC Alger (Algeria) and St Éloi Lupopo (DR Congo) — the very team at the centre of the controversy.

Should CAF rule in Pirates’ favour, Lupopo could be disqualified, and Pirates would take their spot — meaning the Buccaneers and the Brazilians could meet in Africa’s elite competition.

🕒 CAF Decision Looms

CAF has not provided a timeline for when the disciplinary and eligibility hearings will be completed, but the Champions League group stage kicks off on November 21–23, meaning a ruling is likely imminent.

For now, the situation leaves the Buccaneers in limbo but still in the game — a rare twist that could turn heartbreak into one of the season’s biggest redemption stories.