Sundowns request match-fixing probe against Wydad – report

Mamelodi Sundowns are requesting that the Confederation of African Football (Caf) launch an investigation into match-fixing claims made against Moroccan outfit Wydad Casablanca, reports Soccer Laduma.

The allegations were made in February by Lobi Stars coach Solomon Ogbeide, following his side’s 0-0 draw away to the North African outfit.

Ogbeide said his players were offered money to underperform on the day, aiding Wydad’s path to the knockout stage of the Caf Champions League.

Wydad president, Said Naciri denied the claims but, according to Soccer Laduma, Sundowns – who are due to play the club on Saturday evening – have penned a letter to CAF National Teams & Inter-Club Competitions manager Ismail Wally.

The letter reads;

“Mamelodi Sundowns has received reports that Lobi Stars has lodged a complaint over match-fixing against WAC involving players and CAF match officials. Other similar posts circulating on social media have been brought to our attention, and we have been contacted by various media demanding comment on this issue.

“These allegations are very serious, and Mamelodi Sundowns position in relation to the media is that we will not be drawn into this conversation except to say that we trust that CAF will investigate these allegations and if these are found to be true then the appropriate sanctions will follow.

“As Mamelodi Sundowns is on the eve of a very important match against WAC this is especially disturbing, but we trust that CAF will ensure that our match will be a fair contest and that the match officials appointed will give us a fair match.

“We will shortly be meeting in the MCM and will, as it is within our rights, Mamelodi Sundowns will table the contents of this letter on record.”

Sundowns top Group A in the Champions League and only need to avoid defeat to maintain their spot at the summit, having qualified for the next round.

Kick-off is at 18:00.