The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened an investigation into alleged misconduct involving players, officials, and other individuals during the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarter-final matches featuring Cameroon vs Morocco and Algeria vs Nigeria.
The move comes after reports of confrontations with match officials and disturbances in post-match areas following the weekend fixtures. In a statement released on Monday via its official website, CAF confirmed that it has reviewed match officials’ reports and video footage indicating possible breaches of conduct.
According to the statement, the incidents have been referred to CAF’s Disciplinary Board for thorough examination, with appropriate sanctions to be applied if any individuals are found culpable. CAF also disclosed that it is examining video evidence related to alleged misconduct involving media personnel in the mixed zone.
Nigeria booked a semi-final spot after defeating Algeria 2–0 in Marrakech, with goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams. However, the encounter was overshadowed by tense scenes at full-time, as Algerian players confronted match officials on the pitch, resulting in scuffles and a failed attempt by fans to enter the playing area, which was prevented by stadium security.
Algerian players reportedly protested several refereeing decisions by Senegalese referee Issa Sy, including the refusal to award a first-half penalty for a suspected handball inside Nigeria’s penalty area.
In the other quarter-final tie, host nation Morocco defeated Cameroon 2–0, though the match was also marked by controversy. Cameroon’s players expressed frustration over two penalty appeals involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina that were waved away by the referee.
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui later rejected claims of officiating bias, insisting that the match officials acted fairly.
CAF reiterated its stance on discipline and professionalism, stressing that any form of misconduct—particularly actions directed at referees or match organisers—will not be tolerated at CAF competitions.
