The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially opened investigations into the disturbing incidents that followed the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarterfinal encounter between Algeria and Nigeria.
In a statement released on Sunday, CAF confirmed that several Algerian players and members of the technical crew confronted match officials immediately after the final whistle, protesting decisions made during the high-stakes encounter.
The situation reportedly escalated when some members of the Algerian contingent followed the referees into the tunnel — an action CAF described as “unacceptable” and a clear violation of the competition’s disciplinary regulations.
Beyond the confrontation with officials, CAF also revealed that it is reviewing reports of altercations involving journalists and other media personnel in the aftermath of the match, as tensions spilled beyond the field of play.
The governing body noted that such conduct undermines the values of professionalism and respect expected at a major continental tournament.
The explosive scenes came after Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Algeria in Marrakech, a result that booked Nigeria a place in the AFCON 2025 semi-finals and triggered intense reactions from the Algerian camp.
CAF assured that a comprehensive investigation is underway, with all available match reports, referee submissions, and video evidence being carefully examined to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incidents.
The continental football body further stated that appropriate disciplinary measures will be communicated once the investigation is concluded, warning that any confirmed breaches of regulations will be dealt with in line with CAF statutes.
This latest development adds to the growing controversies surrounding the Algeria vs Nigeria quarterfinal, casting a shadow over what was otherwise a crucial stage of the tournament as AFCON 2025 heads into its decisive rounds
