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The 40,000-seater stadium is expected to host the opening match and final of the African Nations Championship.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has completed a day of engagements in Algeria, which included the inauguration ceremony to officially open the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers.
The inauguration ceremony of the 40,000-seater stadium took place a day in advance of the opening game of the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Prior to this, the Nelson Mandela Stadium in the capital of Algiers had hosted a goalless friendly match between Algeria's team B and Ghana on January 8.
Nelson Mandela Stadium to host CHAN final
Located in Baraki – a suburb of Algiers, and named in honour of former South African President and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela, the 40,000-seater stadium is expected to host the opening match of the African Nations Championship as Algeria faces Libya on 13 January.
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On February 4th, 2023, the venue will also play host to the competition's final, which is only open to African players who play from their native countries.
FIFA President reacts to Nelson Mandela Stadium
Speaking during his visit to Algeria, Infantino showed his excitement at the edifice, adding that it was a fitting honour to the late ex-South African president.
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“There are important developments taking place across Algerian football, not least the opening of the Nelson Mandela Stadium, which is a fitting honour in memory of a great leader, and also a wonderful venue to host matches in the upcoming African Nations Championship,” Infantino said.
President Infantino later met with the President of Algeria, Abdelmadjid Tebboune at the stadium, as well as CAF President Patrice Motsepe to discuss a wide range of football development matters across the African continent.
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