Two key fixtures in Algeria’s National Amateur Football League will take place behind closed doors this Friday, following a directive from security authorities aimed at preserving public order and ensuring a smooth continuation of the championship.
The League Nationale du Football Amateur (LNFA) confirmed the decision on Monday, stating that the matches involving USM Harrach and MB Rouissat will be held without spectators.
The move follows consultations with local security officials and is part of precautionary measures to guarantee the safety of all participants.
The first of the affected games will see USM Harrach face Hilal Chelghoum-Laïd at the 11-Décembre Stadium in Mila, with kick-off scheduled for 4 p.m.
A security meeting held in the region prompted the decision to restrict public access to the venue, as officials deemed it necessary to minimize the risk of disturbances.
Similarly, the match between AS Khroub and MB Rouissat will also be played in an empty stadium. That game, set to kick off at the same time at 4 p.m., will take place at the Abed-Hamdani Stadium in Constantine. Again, local authorities recommended the closed-door arrangement to prevent any potential disruption and to uphold the integrity of the competition.
In a statement, the LNFA stressed that the security-driven measures are exceptional and not reflective of disciplinary action. “These decisions were made exclusively to maintain public order and to ensure the safety of players, officials, and all personnel involved,” the league stated.
“While we understand the disappointment this may cause to fans, we ask for their understanding and cooperation during this period.”
The league also emphasized that sporting fairness remains a priority. By allowing the matches to go ahead as scheduled, albeit without fans, the LNFA hopes to maintain consistency and avoid disruptions in the championship calendar.
Supporters of both USM Harrach and MB Rouissat, along with their respective opponents, have been urged to follow the games through official channels and refrain from gathering outside the stadiums.
The LNFA noted that any further decisions regarding public attendance in future fixtures will be made based on continued assessments from local security bodies.
The absence of spectators is expected to alter the atmosphere of both fixtures, particularly for home sides who typically rely on crowd support. However, club officials and coaching staff have been encouraged to prepare players for the unique conditions.
This development comes at a critical stage of the season, where several teams are vying for promotion or fighting to avoid relegation.
USM Harrach, a club with a storied history and a passionate fan base, will have to navigate their home fixture without the usual backing from the terraces. MB Rouissat face a similar challenge in Constantine.
The LNFA’s decision serves as a reminder of the wider responsibilities that football authorities carry, not only to promote competition but also to ensure that it takes place in a safe and secure environment. Whether these measures will extend to further rounds remains to be seen, but for now, both matches on Friday will proceed in silence.
