Under-20 friendly turns sour as Algerian coach slaps player

Tempers flared during a friendly match between Algeria and Tunisia’s Under-20 teams on Saturday.

Footage circulating on social media shows Algerian coach Yacine Manaa striking at least one of his own players during an altercation with Tunisian players.

The video appears to depict Manaa attempting to slap a player twice and lunge at another.

Local media reports suggest Manaa was trying to separate his players and quell their frustrations over a refereeing call.

The on-field incident comes after Algeria conceded a late goal to lose the friendly 3-2.

The match, also featuring Egypt and Mauritania, served as preparation for upcoming regional tournaments.

Reuters has reached out to the Algerian Football Federation (AFF) for comment on the matter.

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