The decision from CAF came as a result of a complaint filed by Tanzania’s Simba Sports, who lost to the DR Congo giants in the round of 32, following the illegal participation of defender Janvier Besala Bokungu.

Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca, who were ousted by Mazembe from the last 16, will now vie for the vacant group-stage spot in a playoff match with Simba.

Mazembe won the previous two editions of Africa’s top-club competition and went on to dazzle in the 2010 Club World Cup, losing in the final to European champions Inter Milan in the UAE.