The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened an investigation into alleged misconduct by players, officials and other stakeholders during the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarter-final matches involving Cameroon, Morocco, Algeria and Nigeria.
In a statement published on its official website on Monday, CAF said the probe followed reports of confrontations with match officials and disturbances in post-match areas. The body confirmed it had gathered match reports and video evidence related to the incidents.
“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 disclosed that it is reviewing footage of an alleged incident involving members of the media who reportedly misbehaved in the mixed zone after one of the matches.
The most volatile incident occurred after Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Algeria in Marrakech, where goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed the Super Eagles’ place in the semi-finals. The final whistle was followed by confrontations between Algerian players and match officials, as well as an attempted pitch invasion by supporters that was contained by security personnel.
The Algerian Football Federation has since submitted a formal protest to CAF, citing disputed refereeing decisions by Senegalese referee Issa Sy, including the refusal to award a first-half penalty for an alleged handball.
In the other quarter-final, Morocco defeated Cameroon 2-0, but the match was also overshadowed by controversy. Cameroonian players protested the referee’s decision not to award two penalties, both involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui rejected claims of officiating bias, insisting after the match that the referee’s decisions were fair.
Reiterating its stance, CAF said it would not tolerate behaviour that undermines the integrity of its competitions. “CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour during matches, particularly actions directed at referees or match organisers,” the statement added, warning that disciplinary measures would be pursued where necessary.
