On Sunday afternoon, November 10, 2024, the remains of Rachid Mekhloufi, the revered Algerian freedom fighter and legendary footballer, were laid to rest at El-Alia Cemetery in Algiers. Mekhloufi, who passed away on Friday at the age of 88, was a symbol of Algeria’s struggle for independence and its footballing heritage.
The funeral ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Aymen Benabderrahmane, members of the Algerian government, as well as the late Mekhloufi’s family, his comrades in the struggle for independence, football club presidents, athletes, and a large crowd of citizens.
In his eulogy, Minister of Mujahideen and Rights Holders, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, highlighted the illustrious journey of the late Mekhloufi, recalling his significant contribution to the independence movement and the historical struggle for Algeria’s sovereignty. “Rachid Mekhloufi was among the blessed men who participated in the heroic struggle for national independence and played a key role in shaping the history of Algeria’s freedom and national pride,” said the minister.
The minister also praised Mekhloufi for his unwavering service to Algeria post-independence. “Even after independence, he dedicated himself to serving the country through sports and coaching, setting a shining example of patriotism and dedication. He never spared any effort in fulfilling his duties, ensuring that the trust placed in him by the martyrs was honored,” the Minister added.
In addition to his national significance, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune sent his deepest condolences to the family of the late hero, honoring Mekhloufi’s legacy as both a fighter for freedom and a football icon.
Born in 1936 in Sétif, Mekhloufi began his football journey as a young player with the youth team of ES Sétif (1950-1952). In 1954, he joined the French football club AS Saint-Étienne, where he played for four years before he answered the call of Algeria’s revolution. Mekhloufi joined the FLN (National Liberation Front) football team, rejecting the opportunity to play in the 1958 FIFA World Cup in Sweden with the French national team.
On April 14, 1958, Mekhloufi, along with fellow players Mokhtar Aribi and Abdelhamid Kermali, crossed into Tunisia through Switzerland to join the FLN team, where they represented the struggle for Algeria’s freedom on the international stage.
After Algeria’s independence in 1962, Mekhloufi returned to professional football, playing in Switzerland and France, and later for the newly formed Algerian national team.
Following his playing career, Mekhloufi transitioned into coaching and took charge of the Algerian national team. Under his guidance, the national team won the Mediterranean Games gold medal in 1975, defeating France 3-2, and secured another gold medal at the 1978 African Games by defeating Nigeria 1-0.
Mekhloufi also played a pivotal role as coach during the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain, where Algeria achieved one of its most memorable victories, defeating West Germany 2-1.
Rachid Mekhloufi’s life is a testament to the struggle for freedom, sportsmanship, and dedication to his homeland. His legacy will remain an inspiration for generations to come.
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Author: nor-eleslam
Keyphrase: Rachid Mekhloufi, Algerian Football, National Hero
