The Confederation of African Football (CAF) disciplinary committee has imposed stiff sanctions on Algeria following chaotic scenes that erupted after their quarter-final defeat to Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria’s 2–0 victory sealed their place in the semi-finals, but the aftermath of the match was overshadowed by misconduct involving Algerian players, officials, and sections of the team’s supporters, prompting CAF to launch a disciplinary investigation.
As part of the ruling, Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane, has been handed a two-match suspension. Defender Rafik Belghali received a four-match ban, with two of those games suspended.
CAF confirmed that all player suspensions will be served during the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, meaning both players remain eligible to feature in this summer’s FIFA World Cup fixtures.
In addition to the individual sanctions, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has been fined a total of $100,000. The fine relates to the misconduct of the national team, as well as the inappropriate behaviour of certain players, officials, and supporters following the final whistle.
Reacting to the decision, the FAF has confirmed its intention to appeal the sanctions, stressing its commitment to protecting the interests of Algerian football through official and institutional channels.
The ruling underlines CAF’s firm stance on discipline and conduct at its flagship tournament, as the governing body continues efforts to uphold order and professionalism at AFCON 2025.
