AFCON 2025: CAF probes misconduct in Nigeria, Algeria, Cameroon, Morocco quarter-finals

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened an investigation into alleged misconduct involving players, officials and media personnel during the AFCON 2025 quarter-final matches featuring Nigeria vs Algeria and Cameroon vs Morocco.

In a statement published on CAF’s official website on Monday, the continental football body confirmed that it is reviewing reports of confrontations with match officials and disturbances in post-match areas.

CAF said it has gathered official match reports and video footage pointing to behaviour that may violate competition regulations.

“CAF has referred the matters to the Disciplinary Board for investigation and has called for appropriate action to be taken if the identified persons are found guilty of any wrongdoing,” the statement said.

The body also disclosed that it is examining footage of an incident involving members of the media accused of misconduct in the mixed zone.

During the quarter-final matches played over the weekend, Nigeria defeated Algeria 2-0 in Marrakech, with goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sending the Super Eagles into the semi-finals.

However, the game reportedly ended on a tense note as some Algerian players confronted the refereeing team, sparking scuffles on the pitch.

Stadium security later prevented a potential pitch invasion by fans.

Following the incident, the Algerian Football Federation submitted a formal protest to CAF, citing what it described as questionable officiating by Senegalese referee Issa Sy.

The federation pointed to a first-half incident in which a penalty was not awarded for an alleged handball in Nigeria’s penalty area.

In the other quarter-final, Morocco recorded a 2-0 victory over Cameroon, but the match was similarly overshadowed by refereeing controversies.

Cameroonian players and officials protested the non-award of two penalty claims involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina.

Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, rejected claims of officiating bias in favour of the hosts during his post-match press conference.

Reaffirming its stance on discipline, CAF warned that it would not tolerate unprofessional conduct at its competitions.

“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting referees or match organisers,” the statement added.

“Appropriate actions will be taken against anyone whose conduct is inconsistent with the standards expected at CAF events.”