The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed heavy sanctions on Algeria, including a $100,000 fine and suspensions for key players, following a violent post-match confrontation after their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarterfinal defeat to Nigeria.
The incident occurred immediately after the final whistle of the match played on January 10, 2026, in Marrakech, Morocco. Algeriaโs players and officials aggressively confronted the match referees, disputing key decisions, including an alleged missed penalty. The altercation quickly escalated, drawing in security personnel and sparking chaos on the pitch.
In a decisive ruling, CAFโs Disciplinary Board announced the following penalties:
ยท A total fine of $100,000 on the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) for multiple offenses.
ยท A four-match suspension for player Rafik Belghali for “aggressive and intimidating behaviour towards the match referee.” Two matches are suspended for a year on probation.
ยท A two-match suspension for player Luca Zidane for misconduct.
The $100,000 fine breaks down into several charges against the FAF, including:
ยท $25,000 for the inappropriate behavior of players and officials that “brought the match into disrepute.”
ยท $50,000 for “offensive and abusive gestures (displaying banknotes)” by Algerian supporters toward officials.
ยท Additional fines for the use of smoke devices, throwing of objects by fans, and failure to comply with security measures after supporters attempted to breach barriers.
Videos of the melee circulated widely on social media, showing scuffles between Algerian players, officials, and security as tensions boiled over following the 2-1 defeat that sealed Nigeriaโs progression to the semifinals.
The Algerian Football Federation has stated it will appeal the sanctions, calling them “disproportionate” and demanding a review of the match officiating. CAFโs announcement noted no sanctions were levied against the Nigerian team.
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