FIFA bans 2 Algerian players worldwide for cocaine positives

ZURICH — FIFA has extended four-year bans to apply worldwide for two Algerian players who tested positive for cocaine.

FIFA says a third player who tested positive for the stimulant methylhexaneamine also had his four-year ban extended globally.

The FIFA disciplinary committee added the international sanctions after all three cases were dealt with by the Algerian soccer federation.

Algeria international Youcef Belaili tested positive for cocaine after playing for USM Algers in an African Champions League match last August.

FIFA says the 24-year-old Belaili is banned through Sept. 19, 2019.

Rafik Boussaid of RC Arbaa, who also tested positive for cocaine, is banned through Sept. 20, 2019. Kheireddine Merzougui of MC Alger is banned through Jan. 24, 2020, for his methylhexaneamine case.