St. Lupopo dismisses allegations of mistreating Orlando Pirates
image: St Lupopo Club
St. Lupopo Dismisses Allegations of Mistreating Orlando Pirates
By Lwandiso Simanga
Congolese club St. Eloi Lupopo has firmly denied accusations of mistreating South African side Orlando Pirates during their recent CAF Champions League encounter in Lubumbashi.
In an official statement, Lupopo described the reports circulating on social media and certain media outlets as “unfounded, slanderous, and damaging to the club’s reputation.” The club expressed disappointment over what it termed “defamatory allegations” suggesting they deliberately subjected Pirates to poor logistical conditions during their stay.
“Lupopo categorically denies the unfounded allegations of mistreatment towards our Champions League opponent,” the statement read. “We ensured all professional arrangements were in place including suitable hotel accommodation, transport, and training facilities to provide a proper welcome to Orlando Pirates.”
The club emphasized that it upholds values of respect and fair play, insisting that it would never compromise these principles for competitive advantage. Lupopo further condemned claims that Pirates had three goals disallowed during the match, labeling such reports as “completely false and contrary to what actually occurred on the pitch.”
St. Lupopo maintained that their victory was legitimate and deserved, asserting that the negative narratives were an attempt to discredit their on-field success.
By issuing this statement, the Lubumbashi-based side aims to protect its image and reinforce its commitment to professionalism and sportsmanship in continental football.