DRC club slams ‘unfounded’ Orlando Pirates mistreatment allegations

The controversy surrounding the CAF Champions League clash between Saint Eloi-Lupopo and Orlando Pirates intensified this week, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) club strongly refuting “unfounded” allegations of mistreatment aimed at the Buccaneers.

Pirates suffered a 3-0 defeat in the first leg of the Second Preliminary Round encounter in Lubumbashi last Sunday. However, the on-field result was quickly overshadowed by claims—amplified by social media—that the DRC hosts deliberately subjected the South African giants to “deplorable logistical conditions” during their stay.

Having arrived in South Africa ahead of this weekend’s critical second leg at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, Lupopo issued a robust defence, labelling the allegations as baseless and damaging.

DRC’s Saint Eloi-Lupopo Deny Orlando Pirates Mistreatment Claims

In a statement issued on Thursday, the club pushed back hard against the suggestion that they had failed in their hosting duties.

“These accusations are completely unfounded, slanderous, and seriously undermine the reputation of our club and the values of respect and fair play that are dear to us,” the statement reads.

Saint Eloi-Lupopo insisted they adhered strictly to Confederation of African Football (CAF) rules and “the highest standards of hospitality,” confirming they arranged all necessary aspects, including hotel, transport, and training facilities, for the Orlando Pirates contingent.

DRC On Pirates Disallowed Goals Claims

Beyond the logistical issues, Lupopo also addressed a second, football-related claim that gained traction following the match, which was not broadcast live in South Africa.

It was alleged that the Buccaneers actually scored three goals that were subsequently disallowed by the match officials on the day. Lupopo dismissed this entirely as an attempt to discredit their legitimate victory.

“The Club… categorically denies the unfounded allegation that Orlando Pirates Football Club scored three goals that were subsequently disallowed. This information is completely false and in no way reflects the reality of the events observed on the pitch,” they stated.

Lupopo concluded by saying they reserve the right to pursue legal action against those propagating the “defamatory allegations” to protect their image and interests, suggesting the aim of the false information was to destabilise the club before the second leg.

The two teams will meet in the deciding second leg this Saturday afternoon at the Orlando Stadium, with Pirates needing a huge performance to overturn the three-goal deficit and advance in the competition.