Algeria fans in Morocco put football above politics as AFCON opener looms | OneFootball

With the Algeria-Morocco border still closed, getting to Rabat has been awkward for many Fennecs fans. Even so, the mood on the ground is upbeat as Algeria begin their Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Sudan at 16:00 on Wednesday at Stade Moulay-Hassan.

Supporters have been visible across the city since Monday, and plan to gather on the edge of the old town late this morning before heading to the ground. According to L'Équipe, dozens linked up with Tunisian fans outside the ageing Hôtel du Centre on Tuesday, hoisting flags and blasting music despite persistent rain all week.

How many will there be in total remains unclear. The Algerian federation is seeking a larger ticket allocation for Sunday’s second group game against Burkina Faso at the same venue, and estimates have ranged from 30,000 to 50,000 fans, with or without tickets. Most are Franco-Algerians travelling from France, while those coming from Algeria have had to detour east before looping back west.

Rachid, in his twenties from Oran, described a route via an eight-hour stop in Tunis, a second flight to Casablanca and a train to Rabat. He put his return at 600 euros and lodging at about 50 euros a night, noting that such costs bite harder at home than in France. Finishing a commerce master and already running a wholesale food business, he wants a response after two group-stage exits, dreams of a third star and says a meeting with Morocco would draw global attention.

Nouredine, a restaurateur from Martigues and cousin of former international Rafik Saïfi, travelled with his son Sofiane and reported a warm welcome in Morocco, from lodging to a local driver. He stressed they are here for football, not social media rows. Algerian kop regular Salim Khelif echoed that sentiment, likening Morocco-Algeria to Argentina-Brazil, calling for adrenaline and for the best team to win.

Source: L'Équipe