CR Belouizdad secured qualification in the CAF Confederation Cup on Sunday with victory in Tanzania, but the success was overshadowed by a confrontation between sections of the club’s supporters and head coach Sead Ramovic at the final whistle.
The Algerian side travelled to Zanzibar knowing that a positive result against Singida Black Stars at the Gambani Stadium would allow them to protect top spot in their group.
On the pitch, the objective was achieved, with CR Belouizdad doing enough to confirm their place in the quarter-finals of the competition.
The result also underlined the team’s recovery after a difficult start to the group stage.
Following a heavy 4-1 defeat by Otoho d’Oyo in the second round, the Red and Whites have responded with three consecutive victories in the Confederation Cup, restoring confidence and defensive stability.
More broadly, the club has shown improved form across competitions, recording nine wins, one draw and just two defeats in their last 12 matches, with losses coming against MC Alger and JS Kabylie.
However, the positive run has failed to ease tensions around Ramovic.
Despite the upturn in results, the relationship between the coach and a section of the club’s supporters remains strained, a situation rooted in a disappointing opening to the season and repeated disagreements that have gradually eroded trust.
Those tensions resurfaced in Zanzibar.
Moments after the final whistle, and despite qualification having been secured, some CR Belouizdad supporters who had travelled to Tanzania directed verbal abuse at Ramovic, openly calling for his dismissal.
The scenes contrasted sharply with the achievement on the field and quickly drew attention from players and officials.
Several members of the squad were forced to intervene in an attempt to calm the situation and prevent further escalation.
Their involvement helped defuse the confrontation, but the incident left an uncomfortable impression and overshadowed what should have been a celebratory moment for the team.
The episode once again highlighted the fragile atmosphere surrounding the coach.
While results suggest that CR Belouizdad are finding consistency and momentum, the disconnect between Ramovic and a segment of the fan base continues to cast a shadow over the club’s progress.
As the Confederation Cup moves into its knockout phase, CR Belouizdad will hope that on-field success can eventually restore unity.
For now, the events in Tanzania underline that, despite qualification and improved performances, the unease between coach and supporters remains unresolved.
