Algerian Footballer Youcef Belaïli Fined Amidst Controversy

Youcef Belaïli, the seasoned Algerian international with 49 caps and 9 goals for MC Alger, finds himself facing disciplinary consequences. The Professional Football League’s disciplinary committee has imposed a fine on the 31-year-old winger following a contentious incident during MC Alger’s recent match against USM Khenchela, where they emerged victorious with a 3-0 scoreline.

Belaïli’s discontentment arose when an offside decision went against him, prompting a vehement protest against the match’s officiating trio.

The disciplinary committee, under the new financial penalty scale introduced by the Federation in November, levied a fine of 100,000 DA, approximately 677 euros, against the player.

This development adds an unwanted chapter to Belaïli’s reputation, often characterized by his spirited demeanor and earning him the moniker “the bad boy of Algerian football.”

As the fine looms over Belaïli, questions arise regarding his potential inclusion in the upcoming African Cup of Nations (CAN) in Côte d’Ivoire.

Despite his stellar performances this season, netting 10 goals in just 9 Algerian D1 matches for MC Alger, the winger has not featured prominently in recent selections by Fennecs coach Djamel Belmadi.

Belaïli’s absence from national team call-ups and the coach’s non-attendance at the USM Khenchela match intensify speculations about his role in the upcoming CAN.

While Belaïli’s club coach, Patrice Beaumelle, fervently supports his deserving candidacy, citing his extensive accomplishments in African football, he refrains from offering unsolicited advice to Coach Belmadi.

In a recent interview with Algerian television channel El Hayat TV, Beaumelle expressed, “Now, the coach knows what he has to do, I have no advice to give him.”

The Frenchman’s remarks hint at the delicate decision Belmadi faces as he plans to finalize a squad of 25 players for the CAN, leaving the football community eagerly awaiting the roster announcement and Belaïli’s potential inclusion.