Three Algerian Football Clubs Face Point Deduction Threat

Three clubs in Algeria's second division amateur league are under threat of having three points deducted from their tally due to outstanding financial debts. The clubs, Nassr Hussein Dey, Taraji Mostaganem, and Olympique Medea, are set to be referred to the disciplinary committee of the Algerian Football Federation on November 18, 2026, if they fail to pay the first installment of their debts by November 17.

The Algerian Football Federation had previously allowed the three clubs to sign new players for the current season despite a ban imposed by the disputes committee for not paying player salaries. The federation agreed to take on the debts of the clubs, with the clubs set to repay the federation in three installments. The first installment was due by the end of October 2026, but none of the clubs made the payment.

The Algerian Football Federation has since issued a warning to the three clubs, demanding they pay the first installment by November 17. The warning noted that failure to comply would result in the clubs being referred to the disciplinary committee, which could impose penalties including point deductions. Each club's debt totals significant amounts, with Nassr Hussein Dey owing 8 billion centimes and Olympique Medea and Taraji Mostaganem each owing over 5 billion centimes.

If the clubs fail to pay the first installment, they will face an initial deduction of three points. They will then be given a one-month period to make the payment. If they still fail to pay, a further six points will be deducted, and they will be given another month to settle their debts. Failure to pay within this timeframe will result in a further nine-point deduction.

The Algerian Football Federation's decision to take on the debts of the clubs was made to allow them to sign new players for the season. However, the clubs have failed to meet their obligations under the agreement. The federation's disciplinary committee will meet on November 18 to discuss the cases of the three clubs.

The threat of point deductions has put the clubs under pressure, with the consequences of failure to pay their debts likely to be severe. The clubs will be hoping to avoid the deductions and secure their positions in the league. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Algerian football clubs in managing their finances.

The Algerian Football Federation's actions demonstrate its commitment to enforcing financial regulations and ensuring that clubs meet their obligations. The federation's decision to take on the debts of the clubs was a one-off measure to allow them to compete in the current season. The clubs will need to find a way to settle their debts and avoid the point deductions that threaten their season.

Key points

• Three Algerian football clubs face point deductions due to outstanding debts.