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The recent appearance of Olympique Safi's Algerian player, Houari Farhani, in a jersey missing the Moroccan flag during his team's match against Algeria's Union of Algiers in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final, has ignited a storm of controversy on social media. This prompted Farhani to release a video clarifying the situation.
Farhani explained, «I was unaware that the jersey lacked the Moroccan flag, and the equipment manager also did not notice. The team captain pointed it out to me before the second half started, and I immediately requested a jersey with the Moroccan flag. I am grateful and feel at home in Morocco, which I consider my second home.»
The player urged Olympique Safi fans to focus on supporting the team in the second leg, saying, «To those trying to create an issue, I say: God is my witness and my protector.»
⛔ Houari Farhani, Olympique Safi player, apologizes and clarifies the truth about removing the Moroccan flag ?? from the jersey
— Issam Elazizi (@IssamElazizi) April 11, 2026
Since he released a video from Algeria quickly to clarify, I see this as a point in his favor
What do you think? pic.twitter.com/uIWDuM8wzz
Meanwhile, Olympique Safi President Mohamed El Haidawi addressed the issue on his Facebook page, stating, «I want to clarify an important point from the first leg: the controversy surrounding our dedicated player Houari Farhani and the absence of our cherished flag on his jersey.» He explained that a technical glitch involving their sportswear partner and the equipment manager led to the oversight, which was rectified during the match's second half.
El Haidawi emphasized, «Houari never refused to wear the jersey; on the contrary, he deeply respects Morocco and is committed to our beloved jersey.»
Olympique Safi returned from their clash with Union of Algiers with a goalless draw, leaving the qualification ticket to be decided in the second leg, set for next week in Safi. The winner will advance to face either Egypt's Zamalek or Algeria's CR Belouizdad in the final.
