Algerian FA chairman Mohamed Raouraoua dismissed claims of hostility with Egypt, ahead of Thursday's African Cup of Nations semi-final clash. The North African rivals came through a frosty relationship recently, thanks to an edgy World Cup qualifying campaign back in November. However, Raouraoua played down the off-field problems of last year's meetings as he looks forward to a calm approach this time around. "We come into this match with a lot of serenity," he said. "We've prepared for it calmly like all other matches. There's no place for animosity because we're in an important competition. "Over the last three matches against Egypt there weren't problems on the field or in the halls of the stadiums." Regrettable The Algerian chief, whose relationship with his Egyptian counterpart Samir Zaher is anything but fine, implied that the latter was behind the unrest that occurred two months ago. "The problems were outside and the animosity was provoked by certain Egyptian officials who said some regrettable things," added Raouraoua. Prior to the playoff qualifier in Sudan, Raouraoua expressed his anger with Zaher when he refused to shake the Egyptian FA boss' hands in Omdurman.
