Algeria Petition CAF, FIFA Over Refereeing After AFCON Exit To Nigeria

The Algerian Football Federation has formally lodged complaints with the Confederation of African Football and the world governing body over what it described as troubling refereeing decisions during its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final defeat to Nigeria.

The move was confirmed on Monday in a statement shared via the official account of Équipe d’Algérie de football, with the federation saying it had written to CAF and FIFA to demand a full investigation.

According to the Algerian FA, the decisions taken during the match raised serious concerns and sparked widespread dissatisfaction among players and supporters alike.

The FA statement reads: “The Algerian Football Federation cannot overlook the refereeing decisions in the last match, which raised questions and caused widespread dissatisfaction, as they undermined the credibility of African refereeing and do not serve the image of African football internationally.

“Accordingly, the Algerian Football Federation has formally contacted CAF and FIFA by submitting an official complaint, accompanied by a request to open an investigation, to clarify what occurred and take appropriate action in accordance with applicable regulations.”

Algeria’s complaint followed a 2-0 loss to Nigeria on Saturday that brought the Desert Foxes’ campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to an abrupt end.

Goals from striker Victor Osimhen and forward Akor Adams sealed victory for the Super Eagles and booked their place in the semi-finals.

Tempers flared after the final whistle, with several Algerian players confronting the match officials on the pitch.

Video clips that later surfaced online showed heated exchanges involving players and referees, alongside a brief attempt by some supporters to enter the field of play before security personnel intervened.

In response, CAF announced on Monday that it had opened its own investigation into alleged misconduct during and after the match.

The continental body said it had reviewed match officials’ reports and video footage pointing to potentially unacceptable behaviour, adding that the matter has been referred to its Disciplinary Board.

Amid the controversy, the Algerian FA urged supporters to continue backing the national side, stressing that the team is undergoing a rebuilding process.

The federation said lessons from the tournament would be crucial as preparations begin for future competitions, including qualification for the 2026 World Cup.