Civil Protection files complaint over CR Belouizdad match incident

Civil Protection Directorate of Algiers has lodged an official complaint against several players from CR Belouizdad following incidents during a CAF Confederation Cup group-stage match against AS Otohô, escalating tensions from Sunday’s fixture into a formal dispute.

According to a source familiar with the matter, the complaint was first submitted to the Civil Protection Directorate General before being transmitted to the Algerian Football Federation and the Professional Football League Algeria for review.

The move follows allegations that officials on duty at the stadium were subjected to inappropriate remarks and challenges from certain players during the second half of the match.

Civil protection personnel were reportedly questioned over their intervention to assist Congolese players who were on the ground. Officials present said tensions rose as players disputed the timing and nature of that intervention.

According to those accounts, some players insisted that entry onto the pitch by emergency staff should only occur with the referee’s authorisation, contributing to a heated exchange during a critical phase of the game.

The situation continued to draw attention after the final whistle. Defender Chouaïb Keddad acknowledged he had protested what he believed to be a delayed response by emergency personnel.

He later issued an apology, seeking to defuse the controversy surrounding the confrontation. Despite that admission, the complaint remains active while the relevant football authorities examine the circumstances.

Those involved do not expect the case to lead to significant sporting sanctions, but the complaint underscores the sensitivity surrounding on-field medical or emergency interventions and the authority structures governing match operations.

By escalating the matter to national football bodies, the civil protection authorities have signalled their intention to ensure their procedures and role during fixtures are formally recognised and respected.

The review process will now determine whether any disciplinary or procedural follow-up is required, as officials seek clarity over responsibilities and communication during high-pressure match situations.