Algiers, DZWatch – The Algerian national football team, affectionately known as Les Fennecs (The Desert Foxes), and their dedicated supporters endured a challenging experience during the recent Africa Cup of Nations. The tournament, hosted by Morocco, served to reinforce the Algerian public’s belief in the correctness of their government’s decision to sever diplomatic relations with the neighboring nation.
Several key incidents during the tournament contributed to this sentiment. A coordinated campaign of misinformation and hostility directed towards the Algerian delegation fueled the conviction that the decision to cut ties was justified.
One notable example was the fabrication surrounding an alleged incident involving the Algerian delegation covering a portrait of the Moroccan King in their hotel. These claims were quickly debunked as baseless attempts to incite animosity. Similar false accusations were leveled against the team, including a bizarre claim that a player stole dried fruit from the hotel – fruit that was, in fact, part of the team’s pre-approved dietary provisions brought from Algeria.
Further fueling resentment was the difficulty experienced by Algerian fans in securing tickets to matches. Reports emerged of deliberate obstruction and website malfunctions preventing Algerians from purchasing tickets, even when stadiums remained partially empty. This perceived attempt to stifle support for the national team was met with widespread anger.
The controversial refereeing during Algeria’s quarter-final match against Nigeria further inflamed tensions. A clear handball by a Nigerian defender inside the penalty area was ignored by the referee, and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) remained silent, prompting accusations of bias and manipulation. Many Algerian fans believe the outcome was influenced to prevent a potentially explosive Algeria-Morocco semi-final clash.
These incidents, among others, have solidified the conviction among many Algerians that the decision to sever ties with Morocco was not only necessary but also demonstrably justified by the perceived hostility and unfair treatment experienced during the Africa Cup of Nations.
