For the record, the Enyimba stadium meets CAF standards in terms of pitch, stands, lighting and security.

The same CAF games have been played in the stadium for nearly two decades. The crux of the matter on ground is that CAF adopted new measures for inspection and approval from this season going forward.

These measures demand clubs to get new certifications from FIFA for pitch, lighting and security. The certificates would be valid for two years and have to be renewed.

In the past, a club makes a formal request for CAF inspection before the start of the competition. The inspectors show up, carry out their assessment before recommending the stadium for approval.

Now however, after making the usual request to CAF for inspection they responded that the certificates must first be submitted before their inspectors come down to Nigeria. This is part of their updated club licensing procedure, which Enyimba is fully committed to.

It should go without saying that there wasn't time to obtain all three certificates before Sunday's game. This is why, according to CAF, the fans would not be allowed into the stadium.

Before the group stage, all would be in place for the inspection and approval and the fans would be a part of the action.

CC. Farriel

http://www.bellsnews.com/sports/cacl-why-enyimba-will-play-behind-closed-doors-against-rahimo/