By Victor Kanayo
Morocco is planning to boycott the 2023 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, which will take place in Algeria, if the team is not allowed to fly directly to the host country.
Algeria will host the competition from April 29 to May 19.
Earlier this year, Algeria deprived Morocco’s team of participating in African Nations Championship, (CHAN) by refusing to allow the Atlas Lions fly directly from Rabat to Constantine.
“The U17 national team will not participate in the next AFCON if we do not take a direct flight to Algeria as indicated by CAF regulations,” President of the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Fouzi Lekjaa told the media.
Few days ago, CAF’s Disciplinary Committee absolved Morocco of any blame for their inability to feature in the tournament that is designed for home-based players and dismised Algeria’s claim for damages, but was silent on possible sanction on Algeria.
A retaliatory action is now being feared, as Morocco could boycott the U17 Africa Cup of Nations which Algeria will host next month.
According to Morocco World News, the kingdom has announced its decision to appeal the inaction from CAF against Algeria’s hostile acts during CHAN.
FRMF President announced the news, stressing Morocco’s dissatisfaction with CAF’s decision.
Nigeria, Zambia, Morocco and South Africa are Group B of the AFCON U-17.
Group B matches will be played in the city of Constantine, Algeria.
