The conclusion of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has cast a shadow over the Algerian football team, marked by lackluster performances, zero victories, a critical defeat against Mauritania, and a premature elimination from the group stages. As frustration mounts among Algerian supporters, the aftermath of Tuesday evening’s match witnessed a demonstration of discontent as fans gathered outside the team’s hotel, expressing their dissatisfaction with both the team’s display and the coaching staff.
Reports indicate that the dissatisfaction escalated to a point where some impassioned supporters attempted to breach the hotel’s premises.
The agitated crowd, in unison, vocalized their calls for the resignation of coach Djamel Belmadi, with chants echoing “Belmadi, get out” reverberating in front of the establishment.
The atmosphere outside the hotel became charged with the collective frustration of Algerian football enthusiasts.
Walid Sadi, president of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), took it upon himself to engage with the disgruntled supporters, appearing in person to listen to their grievances.
The encounter provided an avenue for fans to voice their criticisms directly to the head of the football federation, and Sadi found himself immersed in a dialogue that reflected the intensity of disappointment felt by Algerians nationwide.
The scenes outside the team hotel serve as a vivid manifestation of the emotional investment of the Algerian people in their football team and the profound disappointment stemming from the team’s subpar performance in the AFFCON 2023.
As the Fennecs grapple with the consequences of their premature exit, the passionate response from supporters underscores the high stakes and expectations associated with football in Algeria.
🚨🚨🚨 SCÈNE SURRÉALISTE
Des supporteurs algériens ont tenté de rentrer dans l’hôtel de la délégation algérienne afin de s’en prendre au président de la FAF, aux joueurs et à Djamel Belmadi. pic.twitter.com/uVaC7pI8hl
— La Vague Verte ⭐️🇩🇿⭐️ (@la_vagueverte) January 23, 2024