The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened an investigation into reports of misconduct by players and officials during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, specifically in the Cameroon vs. Morocco and Algeria vs. Nigeria matches.
CAF’s probe comes after reports of confrontations with referees and disturbances in post-match areas. According to a statement on CAF’s official website, the governing body has collected match reports and video evidence pointing to possible unacceptable behavior and has referred the cases to its Disciplinary Board.
The statement read: “CAF has referred the matters to the Disciplinary Board for investigation and will take appropriate action if any individuals are found guilty. The footage involving media members who allegedly misbehaved in the mixed zone is also under review.”
On the pitch, Nigeria defeated Algeria 2-0 in Marrakech, with goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams, securing a semifinal spot. The match, however, ended in chaos as Algerian players confronted officials, and fans attempted a pitch invasion, which was stopped by security. The Algerian Football Federation has lodged a formal complaint over controversial refereeing, including a denied penalty for an alleged handball in Nigeria’s box by referee Issa Sy.
Meanwhile, Morocco beat Cameroon 2-0, but their match also saw disputes over refereeing, with Cameroonian players unhappy over two potential penalties involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina. Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, denied any home-team bias.
CAF emphasized its commitment to professional conduct, stating: “CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour during matches, particularly actions targeting referees or match organizers. Appropriate measures will be taken against anyone acting unprofessionally.”
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