A Nation’s Triumphs: Algeria Shines as CHAN and CAN U17 Host, While Zefizef’s Farewell Looms
ALGIERS- Algeria has emerged victorious in its recent endeavors by successfully hosting the tournaments of both the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN U17) earlier this year. These unprecedented events garnered unanimous praise from officials of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), participating teams, and football experts alike. However, Djahid Zefizef, the current President of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), and members of his federal office fell short of meeting the high standards set by these prestigious tournaments, leading to calls for their departure.
From January 13 to February 4, 2023, Algeria captivated the international football community with its outstanding organization of the African Nations Championship for local players. The stadiums of Nelson Mandela in Baraki, Hadfi Miloud in Oran, and the nineteenth of May in Annaba, as well as the martyr Hamlaoui in Constantine, were transformed into vibrant arenas. The spotlight then shifted to the African Cup of Nations for junior football, held from April 29 to May 18, 2023.
In both events, Algeria achieved remarkable success, as acknowledged by Patrice Motsepe, the President of CAF. Motsepe commended the logistical excellence displayed by Algeria, and emphasized the unique atmosphere created by the enthusiastic crowds. He expressed his gratitude to the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune for his unwavering support for African football and declared that these two tournaments stood out as the best of their kind, with Algeria earning widespread acclaim for its organizational prowess. He concluded by stating that the Algerian people have every reason to be proud of their achievements.
Regrettably, Djahid Zefizef, the incumbent President of FAF, failed to match the impressive standards set by the Algerian state in terms of organizing major sporting events. Zefizef’s disappointing performance was underscored by his defeat in the elections for membership in the Executive Office of CAF. His opponent, Libyan candidate Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani, secured a resounding victory with 38 votes, while Zefizef managed to gather a mere 15 votes. The elections took place in Abidjan, the capital of Ivory Coast, on Thursday.
In the aftermath of this electoral setback, voices within Algerian football are calling for Djahid Zefizef’s departure from the Dali Ibrahim building. Algerian football players and supporters alike are expressing their dissatisfaction with Zefizef’s leadership, urging for a change in the federation’s management. It is worth noting that Zefizef, aged 62, was elected as the President of FAF on July 7, 2022.
As Algeria continues to bask in the glory of its successful organization of CHAN and CAN U17, the focus now turns to the future of its football administration. The nation’s passionate football community eagerly awaits a fresh start under new leadership that can build upon the achievements of the past and propel Algerian football to even greater heights.
