AFCON 2025: CAF begins disciplinary probe after Nigeria, Algeria, Cameroon, Morocco matches

The Confederation of African Football, CAF, has opened an investigation into alleged misconduct by players and officials during the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarter-final matches involving Cameroon and Morocco, as well as Algeria and Nigeria.

The move followed reports of heated exchanges with match officials and disturbances in post-match areas after the games.

In a statement published on CAF’s official website on Monday, the football body said it had gathered match officials’ reports and video footage pointing to what it described as possible unacceptable behaviour.

The cases have now been referred to CAF’s Disciplinary Board for further examination.

“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.

“CAF is also reviewing footage of an incident involving members of the media who allegedly misbehaved in the mixed zone area,” the statement read.

In the quarter-final fixtures over the weekend, Nigeria secured a 2-0 victory over Algeria in Marrakech, with goals from star striker Victor Osimhen and forward Akor Adams propelling the Super Eagles into the semifinals.

However, the match ended in chaos as Algerian players confronted match officials on the pitch, leading to scuffles and an attempted pitch invasion by fans that was thwarted by stadium security.

The Algerian Football Federation has since lodged a formal complaint with CAF.

They cited controversial refereeing decisions by Senegalese official Issa Sy, including a denied penalty for an alleged handball in the Nigerian box during the first half.

Separately, Morocco advanced with a 2-0 win over Cameroon, but the match was also marred by refereeing disputes.

Cameroon’s team felt aggrieved over two potential penalties not awarded, both involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina.

Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, dismissed suggestions of home-team bias in a post-match press conference.

CAF stressed its commitment to maintaining professional conduct at all events.

“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers.

“Appropriate actions will be sought against anyone whose behaviour is not consistent with professional conduct at CAF events,” it added.

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