BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In an exclusive interview with APS, President of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) Walid Sadi revealed crucial details regarding the pre-competitive stage in preparation for CAN 2023, as well as plans for introducing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in Algerian football.
Pre-Competitive Stage and Friendly Matches:
Walid Sadi confirmed that the Algerian national football team, commonly known as “Les Verts or the Green,” is set to undergo intensive training in an African country to acclimatize effectively for CAN 2023. Although the specific location is yet to be finalized, Sadi listed three potential options: Senegal, Ghana, and Equatorial Guinea. The decision will be announced by December 10. The training camp will include friendly matches, with negotiations ongoing for potential matchups against teams from Pot 4 in the tournament draw.
Concerning the team’s accommodation in Bouaké, Sadi reassured that the players would experience optimal conditions, emphasizing that the selected hotel, “L’Hôtel du Stade,” adjacent to the sports complex, has been completely renovated and approved by CAF. He added that the players would enjoy similar conditions to those during the successful CAN 2019 campaign in Egypt.
The president further disclosed that the team would enter a pre-competition camp at the Sidi Moussa National Technical Center during the last week of December, followed by the location-specific training camp.
Arbitration and Stricter Measures:
Addressing the long-standing issues of refereeing controversies in Algerian football, Sadi expressed a firm stance on eradicating arbitral errors. He declared an end to the era of impunity for referees, indicating a zero-tolerance policy for mistakes. Sadi stressed that even international referees and match commissioners would face consequences, potentially losing their international status.
Sadi emphasized the critical role of referees in preventing crowd disturbances and maintaining safety during matches. He warned that errors could escalate into violence in the stands and urged referees, including international ones, to perform their duties impeccably.
Introduction of VAR in Algeria:
Discussing the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the Algerian national league, Sadi acknowledged its significance in minimizing refereeing errors. While admitting the lengthy process and high costs involved, he assured that the FAF is committed to introducing VAR in Algerian football. The president emphasized that this initiative is a major project for the federation.
As the country gears up for CAN 2023, these revelations from President Walid Sadi underscore the meticulous planning and commitment to elevating Algerian football standards, both domestically and on the continental stage.
