A new turn of the screw has imposed itself between Morocco and Algeria. After the boycott of the African Nations Tournament (CHAN) by Cameroon, the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Fouzi Lekjaa, in turn, threatens to boycott the competition if the conditions demanded by the Cherifian Kingdom are not met. fulfilled. Political threat or not, only time will tell.
Algeria and Morocco are currently engaged in a diplomatic dispute that dates back several years. Despite this, the two countries have agreed to co-host the upcoming CHAN 2023. However, Moroccan President Fouzi Lekjaa has decided to impose certain conditions on the Algerian Football Federation and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for Morocco’s participation in the event.
Lekjaa’s requirements for CHAN 2023
During a meeting of its executive committee which was held yesterday at the Complexe Mohammed VI, the president of the FRMF addressed correspondence to the CAF. In it, he reiterated the request that Morocco’s U23s be able to participate in the tournament from Rabat with a direct flight aboard a private plane from Royal Air Maroc. In addition, he demanded that CAF exert pressure on the Algerian authorities in order to compel them to allow Moroccan planes to fly over Algerian territory.
Constantine will host CHAN 2023
CHAN 2023 will take place in Constantine, Algeria. However, if the conditions imposed by Fouzi Lekjaa are not met, Morocco could decide not to participate in the competition. This decision could be considered political blackmail in a sporting event and, if it is not included in the rules of CAF, it will not be accepted.
Morocco and Algeria on the edge of the abyss
This decision by the Moroccan president has put the Algerian authorities in a delicate situation. The two countries are on the verge of severing their diplomatic relations and threats to boycott CHAN 2023 are only making the situation worse. It only remains to wait to see if CAF and the Algerian authorities will find a solution to meet Fouzi Lekjaa’s demands and avoid a boycott of the competition.
