Algerian Football Faces Renewed Violence Amid Poor Organization
Algerian football is facing more problems with violence in the stands, as recent games have seen fights and disorder. The most recent trouble happened during a big match between MC Alger and CR Belouizdad, and also during USM Alger's game in the CAF Confederation Cup against Orapa United from Botswana.
Experts say that poor organization is a main reason for this unrest. Samir Amari, a sports commentator for El Heddaf TV, blamed the management of the July 5 Stadium, saying it was "very badly organized" and left many USM Alger fans outside even though they had tickets. Amari also mentioned ongoing problems with security staff, calling their behavior "confusing and unreasonable."
Despite selling 50,000 tickets online and splitting them equally between the derby rivals, thousands of MC Alger supporters occupied sections reserved for their rivals, escalating tensions. People said some fans entered the stadium without permission, and stadium workers appeared to have helped them, causing scuffles where people threw objects, injuring several.
Younes Iftsan, the veteran coach, also expressed concern about the poor security. He pointed out that unauthorized people were often in the goal areas, pretending to be reporters. In an interview with El Hayat TV, he asked the stadium leaders to take responsibility.
These repeated problems show the urgent need for better safety measures to protect fans and bring back order to Algerian football. Injuries are getting worse, and people's lives are in danger.
Khaled Hegazy
Dailysports's expert