DZWatch Exclusive: Former Moroccan international Marouane Chamakh has urged for calm and perspective ahead of a potential clash between Algeria and Morocco in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. With anticipation building for the tournament, the possibility of a North African derby has become a major talking point.
The two nations, both considered strong contenders for the title, have not met at the continental level for over a decade. This adds significant weight to the prospect of a highly charged encounter.
Recognizing the potential for heightened emotions, Chamakh has stepped forward with a message aimed at de-escalating any unnecessary tension. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the sporting aspect of the rivalry and avoiding any attempts to inflate the competition beyond its natural context.
Chamakh acknowledged the competitive nature of a potential Algeria-Morocco match but stressed the deep-rooted human connections between the two neighboring nations.
“Algeria is a sister nation,” Chamakh stated. “I want Morocco to win the Africa Cup of Nations, but I sincerely hope that Algeria also has a fantastic tournament. This is a genuine feeling.”
His words convey a clear message: that sporting rivalry should not spill over into animosity, and that supporting one’s own nation does not preclude wishing success for the other.
Chamakh described the rivalry, as long as it remains within the boundaries of the sport, as a “beautiful rivalry” that enhances the continental football landscape. He believes it gives the tournament a special flavour.
This balanced perspective is particularly valuable at a time when level-headed voices are needed to maintain the integrity of the competition and prevent it from descending into unwarranted tension, especially considering the existing political sensitivities between the two countries.
Chamakh’s comments also serve as an implicit appeal to fans in both Algeria and Morocco to adopt a similar approach, treating any potential match with respect and sportsmanship.
