Algeria’s squad for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations has already faced its first controversy. Brest midfielder Haris Belkebla has been dropped from the Fennecs’ roster by coach Djamel Belmadi, and Mohammed Benkhemassa of USM Alger has been called up as his replacement.
Belkebla’s exclusion comes after inappropriate behavior during a live Fortnite Twitch stream, in which he briefly exposed his buttocks in view of thousands of viewers. Despite receiving support from teammates and the coach, the prank was deemed unacceptable, prompting higher authorities within the Algerian federation to enforce his removal from the 23-man squad.
The decision underscores the strict standards expected from the Algerian players ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off in less than 10 days.
