AFCON quarter-finals spark outrage, prompting CAF’s misconduct probe amid outcry

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched a thorough investigation into incidents of misconduct that marred the closing moments of two crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final matches.

The events unfolded during matches between Cameroon and Morocco and Algeria and Nigeria, prompting concerns about player and official behaviour and the integrity of the tournament.

In an official statement, CAF revealed it has collected recent match reports and video evidence indicating “potentially unacceptable behaviour” involving players and officials.

The football governing body emphasised its commitment to upholding professional conduct at all CAF events and has referred the findings to its Disciplinary Board for a detailed examination, stating it will take swift action if wrongdoing is confirmed.

The violation of expected standards became acutely visible after Algeria’s 2-0 loss to Nigeria, which sparked significant unrest at the final whistle. Footage circulated online showed Algerian players aggressively pursued the Senegalese referee, Issa Sy, down the tunnel amid growing tensions.

Simultaneously, clashes broke out between Algerian fans and security personnel, creating a chaotic atmosphere.

Algeria’s football federation has lodged a formal complaint regarding the officiating during the match, expressing dissatisfaction with key decisions made throughout the game. They described Referee Sy’s performance as questionable and damaging to the credibility of African refereeing.

Specific issues highlighted included a non-reviewed handball appeal against Nigeria and perceived inconsistencies in disciplinary measures, with six players receiving yellow cards.

Algerian captain Riyad Mahrez maintained a measured response to the officiating, acknowledging it was not perfect but asserting it was not the sole reason for their defeat.

“One must know how to remain lucid,” he stated post-match. Head coach Vladimir Petkovic echoed this sentiment, citing tactical errors that contributed to their elimination, while also recognising that officiating decisions disrupted the rhythm of their play.

The CAF investigation will not only scrutinise player and official conduct at the matches but also examine an incident involving media personnel who allegedly misbehaved in the mixed zone.

This call for introspection highlights CAF’s determination to ensure professionalism pervades all elements of the tournament.

As the tournament progresses, the focus on officiating in African football intensifies. Criticism of refereeing decisions has been prominent since the tournament began, with discussions about the effectiveness of the video assistant referee (VAR) technology also emerging.

Past complaints have already seen teams like Mali and Cameroon voice their grievances about on-field adjudications.

CAF’s concerted effort to investigate these incidents reflects its commitment to fostering a fair and competitive environment and upholding the dignity of the game during the AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco.

As investigations unfold, the football community closely monitors whether CAF will take appropriate measures against parties found guilty of misconduct.