The Confederation of African Football has levied a total of $100,000 in fines and issued match bans against two Algerian players following serious misconduct after their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final defeat to Nigeria.
Goalkeeper Luca Zidane received a two-match suspension. Defender Rafik Belghali was given a four-match ban, with two matches suspended for a one-year probationary period. These suspensions will be served during the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
The Algerian Football Federation faces multiple financial penalties. CAF imposed a $25,000 fine for the inappropriate behavior of players and officials after the match. A further $50,000 fine was issued for offensive gestures by supporters towards officials.
Other fines include $5,000 for the team receiving five cautions, $5,000 for fans using smoke devices, $5,000 for thrown objects, and $10,000 for security breaches.
The sanctions stem from chaotic scenes after Nigeria’s 2-0 victory on January 10, 2026. Algeria was angered by an uncalled penalty when the match was scoreless. After the final whistle, players confronted match officials, and scuffles broke out.
Video evidence showed referee Issa Sy being pursued off the field. Supporters also attempted to force security barriers.
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Algeria launches appeal
The Algerian Football Federation has confirmed it will appeal the sanctions. The federation calls the penalties disproportionate and has initiated the formal appeals process. It stated a commitment to defend Algerian football through institutional channels.
This disciplinary action occurs alongside CAF’s investigation into incidents during the AFCON final between Senegal and Morocco. CAF has condemned the unacceptable behavior targeting officials in both matches.
