Samir Hadjaoui
Samir Hadjaoui | |
|---|---|
| Born | February 16, 1979 Tlemcen, Algeria |
| Died | May 16, 2021 (aged 42) |
| Occupation | Professional footballer |
| Known for | Goalkeeper for WA Tlemcen, ASO Chlef, ES Sétif, Algerian national team |
Samir Hadjaoui (16 February 1979 – 16 May 2021) was an Algerian professional football player who specialized as a goalkeeper.
Club career
Originating from Tlemcen, Hadjaoui launched his professional journey with his local team, WA Tlemcen, where he secured two Algerian Cup titles alongside an Arab Cup victory.
In 2002, he transferred to ASO Chlef, where he added a third Algerian Cup to his achievements.
Following a short stint at CR Belouizdad, Hadjaoui moved to ES Sétif. During his time there from 2006 until 2009, he played a vital role in winning two Algerian Championnat National championships and two Arab Champions League trophies.
He wrapped up his playing career with periods at JS Kabylie, a return to WA Tlemcen, then spells at CS Constantine and finally Paradou AC.
International career
Hadjaoui made his debut for the Algerian national team on 2 June 2007 in an African Cup of Nations qualifying match against Cape Verde. He entered the game as a substitute following the dismissal of goalkeeper Lounès Gaouaoui. His first full international start came in a friendly match against Argentina at Barcelona's Nou Camp, where he faced a young Lionel Messi in a closely contested 4–3 defeat.
Death
After battling a prolonged illness, Hadjaoui passed away on 16 May 2021.
Honours
WA Tlemcen
- Algerian Cup: 1997–98, 2001–02
- Arab Club Champions Cup: 1998
ASO Chlef
- Algerian Cup: 2004–05
ES Sétif
- Arab Champions League: 2006–07, 2007–08
- Algerian Championnat National: 2006–07, 2008–09