Abdelghani Zitouni
Abdelghani Zitouni | |
|---|---|
| Born | 5 May 1932 Algeria |
| Died | 17 November 2010 (aged 78) |
| Occupation(s) | Footballer, coach |
| Years active | 1950s–1970s |
| Known for | Scoring the first goal for the Algeria national football team; coaching USM Alger |
Abdelghani Zitouni (May 5, 1932 – November 17, 2010) was a distinguished Algerian footballer and coach who represented his country internationally. He holds the distinction of netting the inaugural goal in the Algeria national team's history.
Club career
Beginning his football journey at RC Kouba, Zitouni spent the majority of his playing years with OMR El Annasser. His career also included short periods at MC Alger during 1953–1954 and CR Belouizdad.
International career
Zitouni's first appearance for the Algerian National Team occurred on January 6, 1963, when Algeria secured a 2–1 victory in a friendly against Bulgaria at Stade 20 Août in Algiers. He scored in the 72nd minute, marking the first goal ever scored by independent Algeria.
His last international match took place on June 17, 1965, in Oran, where Algeria was defeated 3–0 by Brazil.
Managerial career
After retiring from playing, Zitouni transitioned into management, leading various Algerian clubs, with USM Alger being one of the most prominent teams he coached during the 1970s.