CAF condemns misconduct at AFCON 2025 quarterfinals, opens investigations

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) strongly condemned what it described as “unacceptable behaviour” by players and officials during two quarterfinal matches at the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, and has opened formal investigations into incidents surrounding the games.

In a statement on Monday, CAF said it had reviewed match reports and video evidence indicating potential misconduct during the quarter-final clashes between Cameroon and Morocco, and Algeria and Nigeria.

Host nation Morocco secured a 3–2 victory over Cameroon in their quarter-final encounter, a tightly contested match that ended in chaos as tempers flared following the final whistle.

Several players from both teams were involved in heated exchanges on the pitch, while officials were forced to intervene to prevent the situation from escalating further as the teams made their way toward the tunnel.

Angry reactions post-match

In the other quarter-final, Nigeria defeated Algeria 2–0, a match that Algeria criticised, claiming the outcome was influenced by poor refereeing decisions, including a penalty appeal by Algeria that was dismissed.

Angry reactions sparked from Algerian players and officials, with confrontations breaking out immediately after the match. Security personnel and match officials stepped in to restore order amid protests and scuffles near the technical areas.

Security personnel had to surround referee Issa Sy and his assistants, Djibril Camara & Nouha Bangoura, as they exited the stadium pitch. Match officials also struggled to restrain some Algerian players who attempted to come close to the referees.

CAF said the incidents from both matches have been referred to its Disciplinary Board for a full investigation, with appropriate sanctions to follow should any individuals be found guilty of misconduct.

‘Inappropriate behaviour’

“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour during matches, especially actions directed at match officials, referees, or tournament organisers,” the statement said. “Such conduct is inconsistent with the professional standards expected at CAF competitions.”

The continental body also confirmed it is reviewing footage of a separate incident involving members of the media, who allegedly behaved improperly in the mixed zone following one of the quarter-final matches.

CAF reiterated its commitment to upholding discipline and respect at its tournaments, stressing that decisive action would be taken to protect the integrity of the Africa Cup of Nations.