Krimo Rebih (1932-2012): Founding Member of ALN Team, Former USM Alger Player - What Remains of Our Football?

El Watan remembers Krimo Rebih, a figure who embodied the spirit of Algerian football and the nation's struggle for independence. Rebih was not just a talented footballer for USM Alger and the ALN (Armée de Libération Nationale) team, but also a man of principle, whose life story reflects the values of a generation that fought for both freedom and sporting excellence.

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The young people of today have become materialistic, often without demonstrating anything on the field...

Rebih's journey from a modest background in Algiers to becoming a key player in the ALN's celebrated football team, which even won a North African tournament, is a powerful narrative. His experiences, shaped by the tumultuous period of the Algerian War of Independence, highlight how football served as a refuge and a source of pride during difficult times. The article touches upon the challenges faced by young Algerians, whose education was disrupted, forcing them to find solace and purpose in the sport.

What resonates deeply from Rebih's story, as told by El Watan, is his perspective on the game and its players. He lamented the perceived materialism of today's youth, contrasting it with the dedication and collective spirit he and his contemporaries brought to the field. Rebih's own on-field persona – described as 'formidable, generous, solidary' – and his 'folly and poetry' in play, as recalled by a teammate, paint a picture of a player who understood football as more than just a game; it was a passion intertwined with life itself.

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There is a madness in Krimo's game and a poetry that evokes emotions.

This reflection on Krimo Rebih is particularly poignant for Algerian readers. It serves as a reminder of a golden era, not just in sports, but in national identity. While international coverage might focus on the historical context of the ALN or the sporting achievements, El Watan emphasizes the human element – Rebih's character, his values, and his enduring impact on Algerian football and society. His story is a call to remember the roots of Algerian pride and the sacrifices made by his generation.

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Football was our refuge, because after the landing of the allies, the schools were occupied by soldiers. Studies were over for us. We only had the street left.