Morocco vs Algeria is considered one of Africa's biggest rivalries due to their complex history, geopolitical tensions, and cultural heritage. The rivalry between the two nations is not limited to football, but also extends to politics, economy, and security.
History and Context
The Morocco-Algeria rivalry has a long and complex history, with both countries having been conquered by Islamic armies in the 7th century and sharing a common Berber cultural and linguistic heritage. However, the modern rivalry between the two nations began to take shape during the Cold War, with both countries aligning themselves with different superpowers.
Geopolitical Tensions
The Western Sahara dispute is a major point of contention between Morocco and Algeria, with Morocco claiming sovereignty over the territory and Algeria supporting the Polisario Front, a separatist movement seeking independence for Western Sahara. This dispute has led to a frozen conflict between the two countries, with both sides sustaining deterrence through militarisation, external alignments, and symbolic red lines.
Football Rivalry
The football rivalry between Morocco and Algeria is highly anticipated and intense, with their matches being highly competitive and closely watched. The rivalry is not just about football, but also about national pride and identity. As Mabrouk Kahi, a professor of politics at the University of Ouargla in Algeria, notes, "Morocco is positioning itself as an alternative and a credible partner" in Africa, and football is an important aspect of this effort.
Regional Influence
Both Morocco and Algeria are competing for influence in Africa, with investors eyeing the continent for its significant natural resources, including half the world's gold, an eighth of its oil, and a third of its minerals. As reported on /news/category/football-explained, Morocco and Algeria are looking to bolster their political and economic influence via the strengthening of relations across the continent, and sub-Saharan Africa has become increasingly significant.
Sources
- Algeria-Morocco rivalry is alive and well and focused on Africa | Al Majalla
- Morocco and Algeria: A Strategic Rivalry Shaping the Maghreb - EST
- biggest football rival in africa? - Facebook
- Why the Algeria-Morocco Conflict Just Got More Dangerous - YouTube
- Algeria & Morocco: The World's Most Self-Destructive Rivalry - Reddit