The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has levied a $100,000 fine against the Algerian Football Federation (FA) following the unruly conduct of the national team and officials after their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final defeat to Nigeria.
CAF confirmed the sanction in a statement released on Wednesday.
Nigeria secured a 2-0 victory over Algeria at the Grand Stade de Marrakech on January 10, 2025, advancing to the semi-finals of the tournament.
Following the match, members of the Algerian squad and officials directed their frustration at referee Issa Sy from Senegal and his officiating team, blaming them for the team’s defeat. The confrontation quickly escalated into a large-scale on-field brawl, which involved several Nigerian players.
The situation became so tense that match officials had to be escorted off the pitch by security personnel. The disorder spilled into the dugout, where Algerian players were seen shoving and attempting to physically confront the referees.
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CAF’s disciplinary committee handed down multiple fines: $25,000 for the players’ and officials’ misconduct, which brought discredit to the match; $15,000 for infractions including five yellow cards issued to Algerian players, use of smoke bombs, and objects thrown by supporters; and $60,000 for offensive gestures by fans, including displaying banknotes at referees and breaching security barriers.
In addition, two Algerian players received suspensions: Rafik Belghali was banned for four games, while Luca Zidane received a two-match suspension for their roles in the post-match altercations.
The Algerian Football Federation has announced that it has initiated an appeal process in an effort to overturn the penalties.