Namibian international Deon Hotto found himself at the center of a dramatic and tense scene in Algiers on Wednesday night, as players from Algerian giants MC Alger appeared to chase him off the pitch following the final whistle. Hotto, who plays for South Africa’s Orlando Pirates FC, had just helped his side secure a historic place in the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.
The Orlando Pirates held MC Alger to a goalless draw in the second leg of their quarter-final clash at the Stade du 5 Juillet. The result, combined with a crucial 1-0 victory in the first leg in South Africa, was enough to see the Soweto-based club advance to the last four of Africa’s most prestigious club competition.
However, what should have been a moment of celebration turned into one of fear and confusion. Immediately after the final whistle, tension on the field escalated, reportedly sparked by frustration from MC Alger players and officials over what they viewed as time-wasting and tactical gamesmanship by the Pirates. Amidst the chaos, Hotto was seen sprinting across the field, pursued by a group of MC Alger players.
Fans in the stadium watched in shock as the Namibian winger, known for his speed and agility on the pitch, had to use those same traits to escape what appeared to be an aggressive confrontation. Security personnel quickly intervened, escorting the Pirates players off the field and ensuring no physical harm came to any individual.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “unbelievable” and “embarrassing for African football,” calling for greater protection of players and stricter punishment for misconduct.
CAF (Confederation of African Football) has not yet issued an official statement on the incident, but sources close to the organizing body say an investigation is likely, especially considering the high-profile nature of the tournament.
Deon Hotto played a pivotal role in the Pirates’ qualification, not only with his on-field performance but also with his experience and leadership throughout the campaign. The 33-year-old winger, capped over 60 times for Namibia, has been a consistent performer for the Buccaneers this season.
The Orlando Pirates will now shift focus to the semi-finals, where they await the outcome of the match between Wydad Casablanca and TP Mazembe. With momentum and determination on their side, the South African outfit is eyeing their second CAF Champions League title, having last won the competition in 1995.
Meanwhile, the football world waits to see how CAF will respond to the troubling scenes in Algiers. Incidents like this have raised ongoing concerns about player safety and sportsmanship in African football competitions.
