The Algerian government has recalled its consul stationed in the Moroccan city of Safi following a controversial incident during a football match. The diplomat entered the pitch after a game between local club Olympique Club de Safi (OCS) and Algeria's USM Alger on April 16, 2026, sparking a major diplomatic dispute.
According to verified reports, the consul approached the match officials following OCS's 2-1 victory in the second leg of the Confederation Cup quarter-final. The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) subsequently filed an official complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), alleging the consul's actions constituted "pressure" on the referees.
In response, Morocco's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Algerian chargé d'affaires in Rabat to protest what it termed a "violation of diplomatic norms." The ministry stated the consul's behavior was an unacceptable breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
The incident has further strained relations between the two North African nations, whose diplomatic ties have been severed since 2021. Algerian media reported the consul was acting in his capacity as a protector of the Algerian delegation's security following reported disturbances. CAF has acknowledged receipt of the complaint and is expected to review the matter.
