Espérance de Tunis: Beaumelle and Diakité at risk of sanctions after Sundowns incident

Africa 20 April 2026 at 06:44

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

According to multiple media sources, the disciplinary committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) may impose sanctions on Espérance Sportive de Tunis following incidents that occurred during their match against Mamelodi Sundowns, which was the second leg of the CAF Champions League semi-finals.

EST vs Sundowns: Sanctions looming for Beaumelle and Diakité

According to African journalist Micky Jnr, the potential sanctions are likely to primarily target the club's French coach, Patrice Beaumelle, because of his statements after the match.

Beaumelle strongly criticized the officiating, arguing that Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan (voted Africa's best referee in 2025) made questionable decisions. In particular, he challenged the penalty awarded to the South African side, calling it unjustified.

The coach is not the only one at risk. EST striker Aboubakar Diakité could also face disciplinary sanctions after kicking the ball towards the assistant referee at the final whistle.

CAF is expected to closely review footage from the match as well as media statements before making its final decision.

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