A dispute between Algeria and Morocco over a soccer jersey has escalated into a full-blown controversy. The issue revolves around a map of Western Sahara territory on the jersey, which is claimed by Morocco but disputed by Algeria.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport will hear the case, but no timeline has been set for a decision. The Algerian soccer federation and USM Alger are challenging a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to allow Moroccan RS Berkane to wear the jersey.
The dispute has already affected the teams’ semifinal games, with both matches awarded to Berkane as 3-0 wins. The final is scheduled for May 12 and 19, but it’s unclear if the appeal will be resolved before then.
The jersey issue has sparked tensions between Algeria and Morocco, who have a complex history over Western Sahara. The United Nations has tried to broker a cease-fire, but the dispute remains unresolved.
The laws of soccer prohibit political slogans or images on team equipment, but CAF allowed Berkane to wear the jersey, leading to the current standoff. The case has now been brought against CAF, the Moroccan soccer federation, and Berkane, with a full appeal hearing to come.
