The two teams' matches in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification remain a turning point in the history of the rivalry between the two countries.

The rivalry between the two countries could take root in the tour of the Algerian FLN football team in the Middle East in 1958.

However, the Egyptian authorities, anxious not to offend FIFA in a delicate context with the creation in 1957 of the Confederation of African Football in Cairo, refused to play exhibition matches.

A final round was organized between the four group winners to determine the two nations participating in the World Cup.

Egypt's qualification was marred by clashes that began with a hostile reception upon the arrival of the Algerian delegation in Cairo and continued throughout its stay until its departure.

Belloumi was convicted and prosecuted for many years by the Egyptian justice system, and pursued by Interpol until 2009 when he was cleared of this affair because he was innocent.

[citation needed] In 2001, Algeria, eliminated from the race for the 2002 FIFA World Cup qualification, played the last match of the qualifiers against Egypt in Annaba.

[citation needed] During the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification, the Algerian team bus was stoned by Egyptian supporters.