Algeria – RS Berkane scandal: CAF’s reaction verges on the ridiculous!

The response of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to the cancellation of the match between USM Alger and RS Berkane in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final was baffling.

In a brief statement, CAF merely noted that the match did not take place and stated that the matter would be dealt with by the Competitions Committee.

“The first leg of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup semi-final, scheduled for Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Algiers, between USM Alger and RS Berkane, did not take place,” the confederation stated. It also apologized “to sponsors, TV partners, and supporters for any inconvenience caused.”

However, this response appears completely disconnected from the gravity of the situation. Pending the referee’s report, Abdelaziz Bouh (Mauritania), CAF has not taken any concrete steps to address the issue.

CAF Media Statement: TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup: USM Alger vs RS Berkane.

— TotalEnergiesCAFCL & TotalEnergiesCAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) April 21, 2024

The referee’s report will be crucial in determining the course of action, but it is imperative that regulations are strictly enforced without any external interference. In essence, CAF’s reaction seems out of touch with the significance of this incident and leaves much to be desired in terms of leadership and problem resolution.