The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened a probe into alleged misconduct involving players, team officials, and members of the media during the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 quarter-final matches featuring Nigeria vs Algeria and Morocco vs Cameroon.
In a statement published on its official website on Monday, CAF said it had received the match officials’ reports and video evidence indicating possible breaches of conduct, particularly during post-match activities.
The continental football body disclosed that the cases have been referred to its disciplinary board for further examination.
“CAF has referred the matters to the disciplinary board for investigation and has called for appropriate action to be taken if the identified persons are found guilty of any wrongdoing,” the statement said.
CAF also confirmed that it is reviewing footage involving alleged misconduct by members of the media in the mixed zone area following the matches.
Nigeria booked a place in the semi-finals after defeating Algeria 2–0 in Marrakech, with goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealing the Super Eagles’ victory.
However, post-match scenes were marred by controversy as Algerian players were seen confronting match officials on the pitch.
Video footage circulating online showed heated exchanges, brief scuffles, and what appeared to be an attempted pitch invasion by fans, which was quickly contained by stadium security.
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The Algerian camp reportedly protested several refereeing decisions by Senegalese referee Issa Sy, including the non-award of a first-half penalty for an alleged handball inside Nigeria’s penalty area.
In the other quarter-final, host nation Morocco defeated Cameroon 2–0, but the match was also overshadowed by officiating complaints.
Cameroon players and officials expressed dissatisfaction over two penalty appeals, both involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina, which were waved away by the referee.
Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, rejected claims of officiating bias in favour of the host nation during his post-match press conference.
CAF reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on misconduct at its competitions.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers,” the statement added.
“Appropriate actions will be sought against anyone whose behaviour is not consistent with professional conduct at CAF events.”
The outcome of the disciplinary review is expected to be announced after the board concludes its investigations.
