TP Mazembe may be called upon to explain the discovery of unidentified objects in the tunnel leading to the pitch after their 1-1 draw with Club Africain in the first leg of the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.

The incident occurred on Sunday 18 October, as the Congolese side were held at home by their Tunisian opponents. The match itself ended level, but attention has since focused on items reportedly found by members of the Club Africain staff in the tunnel area.

According to information shared on X by journalist Micky Jnr, several objects were discovered which some observers suggested could be connected to occult practices. Images of the items were circulated on social media, although they were difficult to identify clearly.

The match commissioner was also reportedly informed about what had been found. The discovery quickly led to suspicions being directed towards TP Mazembe, but there is currently no evidence establishing either the purpose of the objects or who placed them in the tunnel.

It has not been confirmed that the items were intended for a witchcraft ritual, nor that they belonged to anyone representing TP Mazembe. The possibility that they were left by an individual with no connection to the Lubumbashi club has also not been ruled out.

No conclusion can therefore be drawn at this stage about the Congolese club’s involvement. Any further clarification would have to come from the clubs or the CAF.

Qualification remains undecided

The 1-1 result leaves the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Tunisia. TP Mazembe will need to produce a strong away performance if they are to reach the group stage, while Club Africain will be looking to use home advantage to secure progress.

For now, the unresolved incident has overshadowed a result that otherwise leaves both teams with an equal opportunity of advancing.