In a dramatic and unsettling conclusion to their CAF Champions League clash, violence erupted between the supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns and Esperance at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday.
The match, which saw Sundowns edge out the Tunisian side with a 1-0 victory thanks to a second-half goal from Peter Shalulile, was marred by disturbing scenes of hooliganism after the final whistle.
The altercation between the fans began at one end of the stadium, quickly escalating into a full-scale brawl that required security forces to intervene. Both sets of supporters were involved in the unrest, forcing authorities to keep Esperance’s fans on the pitch for their own safety.
This troubling incident raises serious concerns for the security arrangements at the stadium, with Sundowns now facing potential disciplinary action from CAF.
The lack of adequate security has been cited as a contributing factor, and the club risks being fined for failing to provide a safe environment for the match.
With the return leg set to take place in Tunisia, all parties involved must act swiftly to prevent a repeat of the violence. The safety of fans and the integrity of the competition are at stake, and it is crucial that both clubs and authorities collaborate to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for the second leg.
