Algeria sends ‘spies’
By Felix Malunga
WITH about two months before Zambia clash with Algeria in a crucial 2010 World Cup and African Cup qualifier in Chililabombwe, the Desert Foxes have sent a four-member delegation to check on the facilities as part of their preparations for the assignment.
The Algerian delegation led by that country’s Football Association president, Mohamed Raou Raou arrived on the Copperbelt yesterday on a fact-finding mission on the state of Konkola Stadium and hotel facilities in Chingola.
Administrator at the Algerian Embassy in Zimbabwe, Ali Mohellebi and FAZ committee member, Pivoty Simwanza were on hand to receive the delegation at Ndola International Airport.
Raou said Algeria had a lot of respect for Zambian football, hence the need for them to begin preparations in advance.
“We have too much respect for Zambian football. We’re here to prepare for the match against Zambia and check on all facilities. I think we will be here for a day and half before going back,” Raou said.
He said the Algerian FA enjoyed a good relationship with FAZ president, Kalusha Bwalya who he described as his good friend.
Raou said he hoped FAZ would also send their representatives to Algiers before the return leg to check on facilities in that country.
The Desert Foxes are also believed to be planning to travel to Zambia early before facing the Chipolopolo on June 20 at Konkola Stadium.
Raou is accompanied by algerian coach, Saadane Rabah, Sadi Walid and Zfizef Djahid Abdelwahab.
While Zambia shocked Egypt by forcing them to a 1-1 draw in Cairo, Algeria also squeesed a 0-0 draw in Rwanda on day one of the final round of qualifiers.
Before tackling Algeria, Zambia will host Rwanda on June 6 at Konkola Stadium while the Desert Foxes will face the Pharaohs of Egypt in Algiers.
All the teams in the Group Three are tied on a point apiece following drawn games in the first leg of the final round of the qualifiers.
The group winner qualifies to the 2010 South Africa World Cup, while the top three are candidates for the African Cup finals in Angola.
