Algiers – The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is reportedly preparing to take the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to court in Switzerland following penalties levied after the Algeria-Nigeria match. According to Algerian journalist Najm Eddine Sidi Othman, the sanctions, while seemingly harsh, could have been far worse.
The CAF penalties included fines totaling $100,000, with $50,000 specifically for fans displaying banknotes – a penalty deemed by some as excessive. However, sources suggest that the match commissioner and security officer’s reports contained far more damaging accusations.
Reportedly, these reports implicated ten individuals, including players and staff. Besides Belaili and Zidane, names like Hadj Moussa, Zorgane, Mandi, and an assistant coach were mentioned, along with members of the medical and administrative teams.
Last Saturday, FAF officials, including General Secretary Nazir Bouzenad and President Walid Sadi, reportedly defended the federation before CAF’s disciplinary committee via video conference. They presented a legal case aimed at disproving the pre-prepared scenario, refuting the allegations in the absence of material or legal evidence against those targeted. The FAF representatives allegedly accused the report’s authors of malicious intent.
Ultimately, Zidane received a two-match ban, and Belaili was handed a four-match suspension (two suspended). The financial penalties will be deducted from Algeria’s $1.3 million reward for reaching the quarter-finals. Other individuals were spared sanctions due to a lack of concrete evidence.
The journalist suggests that CAF will likely demand a legal basis and legal justification regarding the penalties imposed.
