Algeria coach skips Eswatini media briefing before CAF qualifier
Rafik Saïfi was at the stadium for training but did not meet reporters, and CAF rules set a USD 5 000 fine for a first offence.
Algerian coach Rafik Saïfi did not attend a media briefing scheduled for Tuesday at 3pm at Somhlolo National Stadium in Lobamba. The briefing was meant to update reporters on Algeria's preparations for Wednesday's TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Eswatini, a clash between the two nations' Under-23 squads.
Eswatini Football Association marketing and communications manager Muzi 'Rhoo' Radebe said an Algerian official told them Saïfi could not attend because he and the team were tired after an 11-hour journey. Saïfi was at the stadium overseeing a training session but still did not speak to the media.
CAF's Media and TV Handbook makes the pre-match press conference mandatory and requires the head coach to attend unless CAF is told in advance. A head coach who misses it faces disciplinary proceedings and a USD 5 000 fine for a first offence, rising to USD 10 000 for a second in one season. The amount is set by CAF's Disciplinary Board.
Why it mattersThe USD 5 000 fine under CAF rules applies to the Algerian Football Association, which must pay it if the Disciplinary Board imposes it.