By Obinna Uballa
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has lodged formal complaints with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) over what it described as questionable refereeing decisions in its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash against Nigeria.
The federation confirmed the move on Monday in a statement released via the official X handle of the Algerian national team, saying it had requested a full investigation into the officiating of the match and appropriate disciplinary action.
FAF said the refereeing calls in the encounter raised serious concerns and triggered widespread dissatisfaction, insisting they undermined confidence in African refereeing and tarnished the continent’s image globally.
“The Algerian Football Federation cannot ignore the refereeing decisions in the last match, which raised many questions and caused widespread dissatisfaction,” the statement said. “Such decisions undermine the credibility of African refereeing and do not serve the image of African football internationally.”
According to the federation, official petitions have been submitted to both CAF and FIFA, accompanied by a request to open an investigation to clarify what transpired during the match and ensure that any violations of regulations are addressed.
Reports indicate that Algeria has also demanded the immediate removal of referee Issa Sy from the tournament and disciplinary sanctions against him.
The complaints follow Algeria’s 2–0 defeat to Nigeria on Saturday, a result that ended the Desert Foxes’ AFCON campaign. Goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed the Super Eagles’ place in the semi-finals.
The match ended on a chaotic note, with Algerian players confronting match officials on the pitch after the final whistle. Videos circulating on social media showed heated arguments involving players and referees, as well as an attempted pitch invasion by some fans, which was eventually prevented by security operatives.
CAF confirmed on Monday that it has opened an investigation into the incidents that followed the game. The continental body said it had reviewed match reports and video footage indicating possible breaches of disciplinary rules and had referred the matter to its Disciplinary Board.
Amid the controversy, FAF urged Algerian supporters to remain calm and continue backing the national team, describing the squad as being in a rebuilding phase. The federation said the team would draw lessons from the tournament as it prepares for future competitions, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
FAF also expressed confidence in the players, technical crew and officials, praising their commitment and dedication throughout the tournament, while insisting that accountability over the disputed officiating remains essential.
