“Controversial” Comments from Darraji During Algeria-Nigeria Match - Elbotola
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“Controversial” Comments from Darraji During Algeria-Nigeria Match

“Controversial” Comments from Darraji During Algeria-Nigeria Match

10 January 2026at18:15

Hafid Derradji, the commentator for the match between Nigeria and Algeria, sparked widespread debate among viewers due to a series of remarks he made during the game. Many considered these comments controversial and reflective of "personal" interpretations of the events on the field.

During his commentary, Derradji stated, "Algeria will score first." He also noted that "Algeria's players showed signs of fatigue after the match against Congo," adding that "Nigeria's coach, in his reactions, appears as if he guarantees victory." This particular description surprised some of the audience.

The commentator's remarks did not stop there. He criticized the referee's performance, saying, "The referee protects Nigeria's players and only shouts at Algeria's players." He then predicted, "The referee will send off an Algerian player," before sarcastically commenting on one incident, "The referee gives us a foul... Amazing."

Derradji also made forward-looking statements, asserting, "This AFCON will be the reason our national team players are lost after elimination." He then concluded optimistically, stating, "We will achieve a surprise in the World Cup because we have gained a team for the future."

These remarks prompted viewers to question whether Derradji's commentary was objective or influenced by the match's unfolding scenario, especially given that the encounter marked the end of his country's journey in the Africa Cup of Nations at the quarter-final stage.

Why were Hafid Derradji's comments during the Algeria-Nigeria match considered controversial?

Derradji's remarks were seen as personal interpretations, including criticism of the referee protecting Nigeria and predictions about Algerian players' future, sparking widespread debate among viewers.

What was the significance of the Algeria-Nigeria match for Algeria's AFCON journey?

The encounter against Nigeria marked the end of Algeria's journey in the Africa Cup of Nations, as they were eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the tournament.