CAF launches disciplinary probe into AFCON quarter-final chaos

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been plunged into a disciplinary crisis following a weekend of high-stakes football that saw raw emotion spill over into what CAF has described as “unacceptable behaviour.”

STATEMENT: CAF condemns unacceptable behaviour of players and officials during TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 and opens investigation into match incidents during QF: Cameroon v Morocco, as well as Algeria v Nigeria.

🔗 https://t.co/IRB9Fj4KIO

🔗 https://t.co/C5g0HRmPbR… pic.twitter.com/iuCFvfjQTz

— CAF Media (@CAF_Media) January 12, 2026

As of Monday, January 12, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially fast-tracked an investigation into the scenes of disorder that marred the quarter-final stage, specifically targeting the high-tension clashes between hosts Morocco and Cameroon, and the volatile encounter between Algeria and Nigeria.

The Marrakech Meltdown At the 2025 AFCON

The most severe incidents reportedly occurred at the Grand Stade de Marrakech following Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Algeria. While the “Super Eagles” celebrated their progression, the “Desert Foxes” were left incensed by a controversial first-half decision by Senegalese referee Issa Sy.

Algeria has since filed a formal complaint with CAF, citing a “partial” performance by Sy. The flashpoint involved a denied penalty for an alleged handball by Nigeria’s Semi Ajayi. While officials maintained the ball struck Ajayi’s thigh first—a non-penalty according to current regulations—the lack of a VAR review ignited a firestorm.

At the final whistle, furious Algerian players surrounded the officiating team, necessitating a full police escort for Sy and his assistants to safely exit the pitch.

Disorder in the Mixed Zone

The investigation has also extended beyond the touchline. CAF is currently reviewing video evidence of “disgusting and unprofessional” conduct within the mixed zone—the designated area where players interact with the press.

Reports suggest that physical and verbal altercations broke out between rival media contingents, with some journalists allegedly attacking colleagues from opposing nations.

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐨𝐬!!!

Things just turned UGLY in the mixed zone! 😱 Absolute chaos in the media area tonight after Nigeria knocked Algeria out of #AFCON2025.

Frustrations boiled over among a group of Algerian journalists… pic.twitter.com/0WrFlANgIa

— Mthokozisi Dube (@dube_mthoko) January 10, 2026

“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour… especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers,” the governing body stated. “Appropriate actions will be sought against anyone whose behaviour is not consistent with professional conduct.”

Potential Consequences

The cases are now before the CAF Disciplinary Board. Depending on the findings, the tournament could see:

Player Suspensions: Affecting those involved in the post-match confrontation with officials.

Association Fines: Significant financial penalties for the federations involved.

Media Bans: The immediate revocation of credentials for journalists found to have participated in the mixed-zone skirmishes.

Despite the off-field tension, the tournament schedule remains unchanged as it moves into the “Final Four.”

Morocco vs. Nigeria – Rabat

Senegal vs. Egypt – Tangier

With the host nation set to face a high-flying Nigeria side, CAF is under immense pressure to deliver a swift ruling to ensure the focus returns to the pitch before the semi-final whistle blows.