The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched an investigation into the Algerian women’s national football team over alleged breaches of its statutes and regulations at the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
CAF confirmed the development in a statement released ahead of Algeria’s final Group B match against Nigeria on Sunday.
Although the governing body did not disclose specific details of the allegations, it stated that it “will not make any further comment on the matter until the procedure has been completed.”
The probe follows mounting concerns that Algeria has allowed political tensions with host country Morocco to spill into the sporting arena, undermining the neutrality and unity expected in continental competitions.
Earlier reports from Sports Village Square had flagged signs of politicisation of the tournament by the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), including actions widely perceived as deliberate efforts to sideline or erase the identity of the host nation.
Key flashpoints include the refusal of the Algerian team to participate in the traditional pre-match group photo when playing against Morocco, a gesture interpreted as a snub to the host country. Additionally, the FAF circulated a modified version of the official WAFCON tournament logo that omitted Morocco’s name and visual identity as host.
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In an apparent extension of this posture, Algerian officials reportedly blocked all communication and promotional materials that contained the word “Morocco,” escalating what many observers view as a politicisation of a tournament meant to celebrate African unity through sport.
Background to the Dispute
The friction between Algeria and Morocco has deep historical and geopolitical roots, particularly surrounding the status of Western Sahara. Algeria has long supported the Polisario Front, a movement seeking independence for Western Sahara, a territory largely administered by Morocco. These tensions have led to periodic diplomatic breakdowns and have increasingly found expression in sporting contexts.
CAF has traditionally enforced strict rules against the infusion of political agendas into football competitions. The latest developments mark a test of the body’s resolve to maintain that stance amid rising regional tensions.
As Algeria prepares to face Nigeria in a crucial final group match, the outcome of CAF’s investigation could have significant implications not only for the team’s future in the competition but also for broader questions around the role of politics in African football.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
