“Morocco flag hidden inside a cooler”… behind-the-scenes tensions during Olympic Safi’s trip to Algeria

Moroccan media reports have shed light on behind-the-scenes details surrounding the trip of Olympic Safi to Algeria to face USM Alger in the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.

According to Moroccan newspaper Assabah, Olympic Safi took several precautionary measures before traveling to Algeria, reportedly anticipating strict treatment by Algerian authorities toward Moroccan clubs and national symbols.

The report claims that the Moroccan delegation concealed a large Moroccan flag inside a small cooler used for water bottles in order to bring it into the Stade du 5 Juillet. The team later managed to take a photograph with the flag inside the stadium — a move that allegedly caused confusion among Algerian security personnel.

Additionally, the newspaper stated that members of the delegation hid stickers bearing the Moroccan national flag separately from luggage that was inspected at the airport. The intention was to place them on the team shirts next to Olympic Safi’s official crest after arrival.

On the pitch, the encounter ended in a goalless draw, with both sides officially advancing to the quarter-finals. USM Alger will face Maniema Union in their next fixture, while Olympic Safi will take on Wydad AC.

The reported incidents highlight the political sensitivities that surround cross-border fixtures between Moroccan and Algerian sides.

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