The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Senegal on October 12, 2023, descended into chaos after violent scenes in and around the Stade des Martyrs left several Senegalese supporters injured and raised fresh concerns about security at African football venues.

What began as a tense atmosphere escalated into volatility as the game unfolded. According to Paco, the former leader of Senegal’s renowned supporters’ group 12th Gaindé, some travelling fans were initially forced to leave the stadium before later being escorted back under police protection.

The tension grew after DR Congo’s early goals, with celebrations on one side sparking frustration on the other. Tempers boiled over when Senegal equalised and then took the lead, turning the stands into a flashpoint of hostility.

By the final whistle, the situation had deteriorated badly. Eyewitnesses reported chairs and projectiles being hurled toward Senegalese supporters, who were held inside the stadium for nearly three hours under police guard. Only after a heavy security operation were the fans safely escorted to the airport.

The violence has intensified scrutiny on the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Critics argue that the body, led by president Patrice Motsepe, cannot ignore such disturbing scenes, which stand in stark contrast to the sportsmanship displayed in other qualifiers. Many voices within African football are calling for firm disciplinary measures to protect the sport’s reputation.

The incidents have also reignited debate over stadium safety standards across Africa. While the continent’s football has grown significantly in quality and visibility, persistent security lapses risk overshadowing progress on the pitch. For travelling fans — an essential part of the sport’s spectacle — safety assurances remain non-negotiable.

CAF now faces the task of balancing discipline with the broader responsibility of rebuilding trust. Protecting both players and supporters is critical not only to the credibility of the qualification process but also to Africa’s global football standing.

As Senegal continues its campaign and DR Congo reflects on the fallout, the episode serves as a stark reminder: without firm action and reform, the values of unity and fair play that football is meant to uphold are at risk of being undermined.