Railmen hit back at 'defamatory allegations'

by Staff Reporter

Friday Oct 24, 2025. 13:00

Saint-Eloi Lupopo have moved to “categorically deny” claims that they mistreated CAF Champions League opponents Orlando Pirates in Lubumbashi last weekend.

The Buccaneers fell to a disappointing 3-0 defeat in the first leg of their second-round tie at the Stade Frederic Kibassa Maliba on October 19 and they face the prospect of failing to qualify for the group stages of Africa’s elite club competition.

Reports have subsequently emerged that Abdeslam Ouaddou’s squad were treated poorly during their stay in the DR Congo, with radio personality Tbo Touch alleging the Pirates players went hungry on the morning of the match.

But the Railmen have hit back at the accusations, labelling them as “unfounded” and “slanderous”, stating that the club’s reputation has been undermined as a result.

“Lupopo categorically denies the unfounded allegations of mistreatment towards our Champions League opponent,” the statement read.

“Following the defamatory allegations circulating in certain media outlets and on social media, Football Club Saint Eloi Lupopo wishes to firmly and categorically deny the accusations that it deliberately provided deplorable logistical conditions to the South Africans of Orlando Pirates Football Club during their recent stay in Lubumbashi.

“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.

“As part of this Champions League match, we have implemented all necessary arrangements to ensure a professional welcome for the Orlando Pirates Football Club team, including hotel, transport and training facilities.”

Pirates host Saint-Eloi Lupopo in the second leg at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday and they need a stellar performance to keep their Champions League hopes alive.