CAF opens misconduct probe, Algeria could face sanctions despite complaint over Nigeria loss

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched a disciplinary investigation following violent incidents after Nigeria’s 2–0 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final win over Algeria, putting the North African side at potential risk despite its formal complaint over refereeing.

CAF confirmed on Monday that it is examining unsporting behaviour from players and officials in two quarter-final matches, including Morocco’s win over Cameroon in Rabat and Nigeria’s victory over Algeria in Marrakech. Possible sanctions could follow.

In a statement, CAF said it had reviewed match reports and video evidence showing “potentially unacceptable behaviour” and referred the matter to its disciplinary board. “CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers,” the confederation added.

Videos circulating on social media showed Algerian players chasing Senegalese referee Issa Sy down the tunnel after the final whistle, while other clips captured confrontations in the mixed zone between players, officials, and journalists. Algerian fans were also seen clashing with security personnel outside the stadium.

Algeria’s Football Federation later confirmed it had filed a formal complaint with CAF over Sy’s officiating, citing several controversial decisions, including a first-half penalty appeal for an alleged Nigerian handball that was not awarded or reviewed via VAR. The report also raised concerns over the six yellow cards shown to Algerian players and alleged disrespectful conduct by the referee at full time.

“The refereeing performance raised numerous questions and caused considerable confusion,” the Algerian federation said, warning that some decisions “damaged the credibility of African refereeing.”

The controversy has reignited criticism of officiating at the tournament, which has faced scrutiny despite VAR. Mali and Cameroon had previously expressed dissatisfaction with refereeing, with Mali successfully appealing to reduce Amadou Haïdara’s suspension from two matches to one. Some Algerian media also questioned Issa Sy’s last-minute appointment, replacing Somali referee Abdelkader Artan shortly before the match.

Despite the federation’s strong stance, Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez struck a measured tone, saying, “The refereeing was not perfect, but it is not the only reason for our defeat.” Head coach Vladimir Petkovic acknowledged that officiating affected his side but stressed that tactical issues ultimately determined Algeria’s exit.

CAF confirmed that its investigation would also cover post-match incidents in the tunnel, where clashes reportedly occurred between members of both delegations following Algeria’s elimination from the tournament.