CAF Probes AFCON Clashes After Nigeria, Morocco Matches

CAF has opened an investigation into clashes involving players, officials and journalists after heated scenes at AFCON 2025 quarterfinals in Morocco.

Tensions flared at the end of Algeria’s 2-0 defeat to Nigeria in Marrakesh on January 10. Nigeria won through second-half goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams, before confrontations broke out. Referee Issa Sy had to be escorted away as video showed angry Algeria staff pursuing him, even in the mixed zone. CAF said, “CAF has referred the matters to the disciplinary board for investigation…” and warned action could follow. The body added, “CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour… especially those targeting the refereeing team.”

CAF confirmed investigations also cover Morocco’s win over Cameroon, where the visitors protested a denied penalty for Bryan Mbeumo. Algeria’s federation said decisions “have damaged African refereeing.”