CAF Worries Over Security At Mandela Stadium

The African Football Confederation (CAF) has expressed
concern over the state of security at Port Elizabeth, venue for Group B matches
at the ongoing 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Following
this development, CAF has urged the South African authorities to beef up
security at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

The
CAF disciplinary board had to file a note of warning to DR Congo, after two of
their fans encroached during their opening match against Ghana on January 20 at
the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

The
board also sanctioned supporters of the Walya Antelopes who were alleged to have
thrown plastic bottles and vuvuzelas on to the pitch at the Mbombela Stadium.

“At
the 55th minute, a Congolese spectator managed to enter the field of play.

“The
same incident was repeated at the 65th minute when another Congolese fan ran
into the field of play.

“The
board decided to address a warning letter to the local organising committee,
advising them that they needed to reinforce the security in Port Elizabeth,”
CAF said in a statement.

The
match ended in a 2-2 draw.

The
Ethiopian FA was fined 10, 000 dollars, while their goalkeeper, Jemal Tassew,
was also suspended for two matches.

Tassew was sent off for a rough tackle on
Zambian striker, Chisamba Lungu, during their Group C match that ended 1-1.

CAF,
however, threatened to impose the mandatory S5, 000-dollar fine on the
goalkeeper, if he should commit a similar offence at subsequent stages of the
tournament.