Early Life
Abdelkader Mazouz, known as Mazouza, was born on 4 August 1932 in Blida, Algeria. He passed away on 19 April 1978. He remains one of the most notable figures in Algerian football, both before and after independence.
Playing Career
Mazouza played as a forward for Nîmes Olympique. In 1958, he helped the club reach the final of the French Cup. During that match, he scored Nîmes’ only goal with a direct free kick, a moment that became a highlight of his career in French football.
Later that year, he left the French league and joined the FLN football team. This team, formed by Algerian players committed to the independence struggle, toured the world playing friendly matches to support the national cause. Mazouza reunited with several major Algerian players, including Abdelaziz Ben Tifour and Rachid Mekloufi.
After Independence
Following Algeria’s independence in 1962, Mazouza played one season with La Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland. He later returned to Algeria and rejoined his original club, USM Blida, where he served as both player and coach.
He then pursued a full coaching career, leading teams such as the Algerian military national team, ASO Chlef, USMM Hadjout, and RC Kouba.
Legacy
In 2006, the sports high school annex in Blida was officially named after him. This honor reflects the lasting recognition of his contribution to Algerian football.