The upcoming friendly match between Algeria and Niger, scheduled for June 5 at the Chahid Hamlaoui Stadium in Constantine, faces uncertainty due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Sahel region.
The match was initially agreed upon as part of Algeria’s preparation for upcoming international fixtures, with an agreement struck between the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) and its Nigerien counterpart.
However, recent political developments have cast doubt on the fixture’s feasibility.
Reports from AfricaFootUnited suggest that the deteriorating diplomatic relations between Algeria and several countries in the region, including Niger, are now threatening the match.
A recent incident involving the shooting down of a drone over Algerian airspace has heightened these tensions, further straining Algeria’s relationships with neighboring nations, particularly Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
One of the most significant signs of the growing diplomatic divide is the recall of the Nigerien ambassador from Algiers, which has underscored the seriousness of the situation.
Given the volatile circumstances, the Algerian Football Federation is reportedly considering alternative arrangements.
The FAF is aware of the increasing likelihood that the match could be cancelled, and sources suggest that it may soon begin discussions with other African federations to secure a replacement opponent for the same date.
This contingency plan would allow Algeria to maintain their preparations, regardless of the ongoing diplomatic issues.
If the match is indeed called off, it would present a substantial challenge for Algeria, as the national team is in the midst of preparing for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
With the international calendar becoming ever more congested, each friendly match plays a crucial role in fine-tuning the team’s readiness.
The FAF will be under pressure to act quickly to ensure that the Greens’ preparation schedule remains on track.
Despite these uncertainties, the FAF has confirmed a subsequent friendly match against Sweden, set to take place on June 10, 2025, in Stockholm.
This fixture, along with any potential replacement for the Niger match, will be critical in maintaining momentum ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
