Fake news irritates Algerian football federation

Algeria’s football federation have come out strongly against fake stories on social media suggesting their new coach Vladimir Petkovic is quitting after only three months in the job.

On Saturday, a document said to be an official press release from the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) appeared on several social media forums suggesting Vladimir Petkovic and the FAF have decided by mutual agreement to terminate his contract after only three months and that a call for applications to succeed him had already been launched.

But this has turned out to be false, with a terse statement released condemning the fake document.

“The Algerian Football Federation denounces the unfortunate smear campaign orchestrated against the national team, using fake accounts on social networks to carry out hideous propaganda for ulterior purposes.

“At a time when the national team is gradually regaining its stability and performance, this apparently displeases certain circles known for their grotesque actions and attempts at destabilisation.

“The Algerian Football Federation reassures fans of the national team that the staff led by the national coach, Mr. Vladimir Petkovic, has the full confidence of the federal body and will support him until the end to help him achieve the objectives outlined,” said the statement.

Petkovic has been under pressure after Algeria lost at home to Guinea in their World Cup qualifier in June, although they followed that up with an away win over Uganda just days later.

“The Algerian Football Federation will spare no effort to preserve the stability of the national team and will pursue legal action against the author of the false account,” the statement added.