Benzarti Excludes Cherifi from Club Africain Squad Over Fasting Adherence - Elbotola
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Benzarti Excludes Cherifi from Club Africain Squad Over Fasting Adherence

Benzarti Excludes Cherifi from Club Africain Squad Over Fasting Adherence

T.E (Elbotola)
04 March 2026at10:00

Algerian player Toufik Cherifi was absent from Club Africain's starting lineup in the team's last match of Round 22 in the Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1, which ended in a comprehensive 5-0 victory for Club Africain. His sudden absence sparked widespread questions regarding its cause.

According to Tunisian media sources, Cherifi's absence is attributed to his adherence to fasting during the month of Ramadan. Coach Faouzi Benzarti maintains a strict policy regarding fasting players, not granting them a place in the starting lineup or even the matchday squad, to ensure their physical readiness and guarantee peak performance during games.

Toufik Cherifi, 24, is considered one of the team's technical mainstays. This season, he has played seven matches for Club Africain, and over the past four years, he has participated in 65 matches across various competitions. He has also previously represented Algeria internationally with the U23 national team, underscoring his technical value to Club Africain.

Cherifi's absence comes at a crucial time for Club Africain, who currently sit second in the league with 48 points, just two points behind leaders Espérance Sportive de Tunis. This makes every technical decision and player selection subject to close scrutiny by fans and the media.

Why was Toufik Cherifi absent from Club Africain's last match?

Toufik Cherifi was excluded from Club Africain's squad for their recent 5-0 victory. His absence was due to coach Faouzi Benzarti's strict policy against players fasting during Ramadan, aiming to ensure peak physical readiness for games.

How does Cherifi's exclusion impact Club Africain's season?

Cherifi's exclusion comes at a critical juncture for Club Africain, who are currently second in the league, just two points behind the leaders. Sidelining a technical mainstay like him could affect their title challenge, making every selection decision crucial.

What are the future implications of Coach Benzarti's fasting policy?

Coach Benzarti's strict fasting policy could continue to sideline key players like Cherifi during Ramadan, potentially impacting team selection and performance in crucial matches. This approach ensures physical readiness but raises questions about player management during religious observances.
Club Africain
Tunisian Professional League 1

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