AFCON 2025: Algeria drags CAF, FIFA over Nigeria defeat, demands ref’s ban

The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has formally petitioned the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) over what it described as controversial refereeing decisions in its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final defeat to Nigeria.

FAF confirmed the move on Monday in a statement posted on the official X handle of Équipe d’Algérie de football, saying it had submitted official complaints to both football bodies and demanded a full investigation into the match officiating.

According to the federation, the refereeing decisions in the encounter raised serious concerns and sparked widespread dissatisfaction, undermining confidence in African refereeing and damaging the continent’s football image internationally.

“The Algerian Football Federation cannot overlook the refereeing decisions in the last match, which raised questions and caused widespread dissatisfaction, as they undermine the credibility of African refereeing and do not serve the image of African football internationally,” the statement said.

FAF said it had asked CAF and FIFA to open an investigation into the match and take appropriate action in line with applicable regulations. It also reportedly demanded that the referee, Issa Sy, be removed from the tournament and sanctioned.

The petition followed Algeria’s 2–0 loss to Nigeria on Saturday, a result that ended the Desert Foxes’ AFCON campaign. Goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams secured the Super Eagles’ passage into the semi-finals.

The match descended into chaos at full time, with Algerian players confronting match officials on the pitch. Videos circulating online showed heated exchanges between players and referees, as well as an attempted pitch invasion by fans that was eventually contained by stadium security.

CAF confirmed on Monday that it had opened an investigation into alleged misconduct during the match. The continental body said it had gathered match officials’ reports and video evidence indicating potentially unacceptable behaviour, and that the matter had been referred to its Disciplinary Board for further review.

Despite the controversy, FAF urged Algerian fans to continue supporting the national team, noting that the squad is in a rebuilding phase. The federation said lessons from the tournament would be used to strengthen preparations for future competitions, including the 2026 World Cup.

FAF also expressed confidence in the players, technical crew and officials, praising their commitment and dedication throughout the tournament, even as it pursues accountability over the disputed officiating.