The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched an investigation into alleged misconduct by players and officials during the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarter-final clashes between Cameroon and Morocco, as well as Algeria and Nigeria.
The investigations follow reports of confrontations with referees and disruptions in post-match areas.
According to a statement posted on CAF’s official website on Monday, the football governing body has collected match reports and video evidence suggesting potentially unacceptable behavior and has referred the matters to the Disciplinary Board for further review.
“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.
“CAF is also reviewing footage of an incident involving members of the media who allegedly misbehaved in the mixed zone area,” the statement read.
Nigeria defeated Algeria 2-0 in the quarter-finals over the weekend in Marrakech, with goals from top scorer Victor Osimhen and forward Akor Adams driving the Super Eagles to the semifinals.
However, the game ended in confusion as Algerian players attacked match officials on the field, resulting in scuffles and an attempted pitch invasion by fans that was foiled by stadium security.
The Algerian Football Federation has since lodged an official protest with CAF.
They cited dubious refereeing decisions by Senegalese official Issa Sy, such as a disallowed penalty for a suspected handball in the Nigerian box during the first half.
Morocco advanced with a 2-0 victory over Cameroon, but the game was plagued by refereeing issues.
Cameroon’s team was upset when two possible penalties were not awarded, both involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina.
Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, refuted claims of home-team bias at a post-match press conference.
CAF emphasized its commitment to upholding professional standards at all events.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behavior that occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers.
“Appropriate actions will be sought against anyone whose behavior is not consistent with professional conduct at CAF events,” it added.
