The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has fined the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) $100,000 and handed out multiple player suspensions following disciplinary breaches during and after their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarter-final loss to Nigeria.
The sanctions relate to chaotic scenes at the end of the match on January 10, 2026, in Marrakech, Morocco, where Nigeria defeated Algeria 2-0 to reach the semi-finals. Several Algerian players and officials confronted match officials after the final whistle—a behaviour described by CAF’s Disciplinary Board as bringing the game into disrepute. The confrontation also involved some Nigerian players, who were reportedly attacked during the on-field brawl.
CAF’s ruling detailed fines as follows:
- $25,000 for Algerian players and officials whose conduct brought discredit to the match.
- $15,000 for multiple yellow cards, the use of smoke bombs, and throwing of objects by supporters.
- $60,000 for offensive gestures by supporters, including displaying banknotes at referees and attempting to breach security barriers.
Additionally, Desert Foxes players Rafik Belghali and Luca Zidane were suspended for four and two matches, respectively, for their role in the post-match scuffle.
In response, the Algerian FA confirmed it had initiated an appeal to contest the sanctions. In a statement, the federation said:
“The Algerian Football Federation informs the public of the decision rendered by the Disciplinary Committee of CAF regarding incidents during the Algeria-Nigeria quarter-final. Following these decisions, the Algerian FA immediately initiated the appeals process stipulated by regulations and will follow developments closely.”
The appeal process could see some fines reduced or suspensions overturned, depending on CAF’s review.
