Algeria is set to face Angola on Monday in Ivory Coast, and taking center stage as the referee is none other than the esteemed Senegalese official, Issa Sy. The appointment, made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), draws attention as Issa Sy returns to officiate an Algerian match, after having previously presided over their 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
The encounter between Algeria and Angola is scheduled to unfold at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké at 8 p.m., as both teams vie for supremacy in Group D.
Issa Sy’s familiarity with the Algerian side stems from his involvement in their 2024 World Cup qualifiers, a connection that adds an extra layer of anticipation to this crucial AFCON 2023 fixture.
A notable episode in this narrative unfolded on October 12, 2021, during the return match of the qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup when Algeria faced Niger.
The Fennecs emerged victorious with a commanding 4-0 scoreline, courtesy of goals from Mahrez (20′), Aissa Mandi (33′), Ismaël Bennacer (48′), and Baghdad Bounedjah (54′). Issa Sy, the man in the middle, officiated the proceedings, leaving an indelible mark on the memory of that encounter.
It remains the solitary occasion where Issa Sy has wielded his officiating prowess in the realm of the Fennecs.
As the spotlight shifts to the AFCON 2023 opener, all eyes will be on Issa Sy as he navigates the complexities of the match, bringing with him a wealth of experience and an established rapport with the Algerian squad.
The footballing world eagerly awaits the outcome of this highly anticipated clash under the watchful gaze of the seasoned Senegalese referee.
