The Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) has ruled in favor of TP Mazembe in the case of Chadrack Bingi Belo, dismissing the appeal of FC Les Aigles du Congo. The dispute centered on Bingi Belo's eligibility to play for Mazembe in a June 11 match. The CDC, FECOFA's disciplinary committee, declared the appeal "receivable, but not founded," confirming the result of the match won by Mazembe.
The controversy began when FC Les Aigles du Congo raised concerns about Bingi Belo's administrative situation, citing discrepancies in his date of birth and licensing documents. The club claimed that Bingi Belo's license was not validated at the time of the match and that his date of birth was listed differently on various documents. However, FECOFA's CDC found that Mazembe had registered Bingi Belo on April 29, within the allowed timeframe.
During the hearing on August 27, TP Mazembe contested any irregularities, arguing that Bingi Belo's absence of a license in FIFA Connect on the day of the match was due to a system malfunction. The club cited precedent from the previous season, when players were allowed to play with their registration documents and identification. The CDC accepted this argument, citing article 229, paragraph 3, of the regulations.
The CDC also considered the divergent dates of birth listed for Bingi Belo as a "material error" with no impact on his eligibility. FECOFA had previously confirmed the regularity of Bingi Belo's registration in two letters dated June 17 and 22. As a result, the CDC upheld the validity of Bingi Belo's participation and maintained the result of the match.
The decision allows TP Mazembe to retain the points earned in the match and continue their campaign in the Illicocash Ligue 1 playoffs. FC Les Aigles du Congo, who were unsuccessful in their initial appeal and subsequent evocation before FECOFA, may choose to pursue the matter further, potentially taking it to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The case highlights the complexities of football regulations and the importance of accurate documentation. The FECOFA decision demonstrates the federation's commitment to upholding the rules and ensuring fair play in Congolese football. The outcome will have implications for future cases involving player eligibility and registration.
The dispute between TP Mazembe and FC Les Aigles du Congo is now resolved, with Mazembe emerging victorious. The two teams are likely to meet again on the pitch, with Mazembe seeking to build on their momentum in the playoffs. The FECOFA decision brings closure to the matter, allowing both teams to focus on their sporting performances.
Key points
- FECOFA confirms TP Mazembe's victory in the Chadrack Bingi Belo case.
