afrol News, 20 November - The rivalry between the north Africa neighbours, Egypt and Algeria has heightened beyond the fight for a place in the 2010 soccer event in South Africa.

The Egyptian ambassador to Algeria has been recalled in a twist of a political feud, following the violence that erupted from the football rivalry. Algeria ultimately triumphed in the match, claiming the last African spot for the first African World Cup.

Reports have also said the Khartoum government, which played a neutral host for the derby game, has also joined in the diplomatic fracas accusing Egypt, especially its media, on the handling of the after game events.

The two nations had to engage in a play-off after finishing in a tie in their group for the World Cup qualifications.

However, violence, which reportedly even crossed into Europe, in France, bulged into a full diplomatic feud between the two neighbours.

In Cairo, the Algerian team bus was pelted with stones a week before, while in retaliation, Egyptian business establishments in Algeria were ransacked. In another turn, Algerian fans also allegedly torched six boats in Marseille in France, as the anger and tensions went across the borders.

Meanwhile, Egyptian authorities have said the recall of the ambassador to Algeria was only for consultations and not a diplomatic cut, despite the move coming after heated media reports and requests calling for an end of ties.

By staff writer

© afrol News

Related pages and feature

Current afrol News Top Stories