CAF Cup: RS Berkane accused of corruption !

Africa 29 May 2025 at 11:33

Amine Jomni

News Editor

The triumph of Renaissance Sportive de Berkane in the CAF Confederation Cup is now shrouded in controversy following serious allegations. The Moroccan club, also this season’s national champion, is under fire from Tanzanian quarters after their victory over Simba SC (2-0 in the first leg, 1-1 in the return).

The Tanzanian media accuses Berkane—a club closely linked to the highly influential president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Fouzi Lekjaa—of simply “bribing the officials” during the second leg of the final, played in Zanzibar.

A video circulating on social media shows alleged members of the Moroccan club entering the referees’ dressing room at halftime—a practice strictly forbidden.

One of the individuals caught on camera even appears to try to block the lens, a move that instantly sparked controversy. Watch:

Halftime under heavy tension

The controversy escalated further when refereeing decisions in the second half came under the microscope.

In the 50th minute, Tanzanian player Yusuph Kagoma was shown a straight red card, with no VAR review, at a moment when Simba led 1-0 and dominated proceedings. Video:

Just minutes later, a goal by the Tanzanian side was disallowed for a highly questionable offside, with no clear footage to justify the call. Watch:

CAF under pressure

In this explosive context, many voices have risen to denounce the perceived partial use of VAR and an alleged closeness between CAF and certain North African clubs.

Accused of turning a blind eye, the African Confederation is now being pressured to launch an investigation. The integrity of continental competitions has never been more in question.