The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has slammed the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) with a $100,000 fine and imposed match suspensions on players following chaotic scenes after Algeria’s 2–0 loss to Nigeria at the quarter-final stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The sanctions stem from disorder that broke out immediately after the final whistle, with CAF reporting that several Algerian players engaged Super Eagles players in an on-pitch confrontation, while others allegedly chased match officials from the field of play into the tunnel.
CAF condemned the incidents, describing the behaviour as unacceptable, and subsequently referred the matter to its disciplinary committee.
The decision was later confirmed publicly by journalist Sulaiman Adebayo, popularly known as Pooja, who reported that CAF had taken firm action against Algeria for misconduct during and after the match.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Algerian Football Federation acknowledged the disciplinary measures, confirming that CAF imposed a cumulative fine of $100,000 on the national team.
According to the federation, the penalties were linked to multiple violations, including players’ misconduct that resulted in numerous bookings, inappropriate actions by players and officials after the match, the use of flares by supporters, objects thrown onto the pitch, security breaches, and offensive gestures involving fans and some media personnel.
Beyond the financial sanctions, CAF also enforced sporting penalties. Defender Rafik Belghali was handed a four-match suspension, with two games to be served during the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
Goalkeeper Luca Zidane was also suspended for two matches, which he will miss in the next qualifying campaign.
Reacting to the ruling, the Algerian FA disclosed that it had initiated an appeal in line with CAF regulations. The federation said it would closely monitor developments as the disciplinary process continues.
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The disciplinary action comes amid broader concerns by CAF over player and official conduct at the tournament. Earlier in the week, the football body also condemned what it termed “unacceptable behaviour” following the AFCON 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat.
Although CAF did not name those involved in the final’s post-match incidents, it said match officials and tournament organizers were targeted.
The governing body confirmed that it is reviewing video footage from the game and will forward its findings to the appropriate disciplinary panels, warning that further sanctions would follow where violations are established.
CAF reiterated its commitment to enforcing discipline and promoting respect and fair play, stressing that misconduct at its competitions would not be tolerated, especially during high-profile fixtures such as the Africa Cup of Nations.