Algeria are preparing to formally submit reports to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their 2-0 defeat to Nigeria in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to African football journalist Micky Jnr, the Algerian Football Federation intends to lodge an official complaint over what it describes as poor officiating by Senegalese referee Issa Sy during Saturday’s match.
Nigeria controlled much of the contest, breaking the deadlock early in the second half when Victor Osimhen headed home from a Bruno Onyemaechi cross.
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
The Super Eagles doubled their advantage soon after, with Osimhen turning provider as Akor Adams rounded goalkeeper Luca Zidane before finishing into an empty net.
Algeria, who struggled to register clear chances, believe they were denied a penalty during the match and have questioned several key decisions, claiming they consistently went in Nigeria’s favour. The Algerian FA also alleged that referee Issa Sy failed to shake hands with their players at full-time.
In addition to concerns over match officiating, Algeria have claimed their players were provoked by Nigerian players after the final whistle. The federation also alleged that Algerian journalists and media professionals were involved in an incident in the tunnel area following the match.
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
As part of their submission, Algeria are expected to ask CAF to suspend Issa Sy from further officiating duties at the tournament, pending a review of the reports and any supporting evidence.
The referee of the Algeria–Nigeria match had to be escorted off the pitch after full-time.
The end of the match was marred by fights between Algerian and Nigerian players, as well as clashes between spectators and members of stadium security in Marrakech.
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
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CAF is yet to make a public statement but is expected to examine the allegations as part of its post-match disciplinary and refereeing review process.
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Nigeria advanced to the semi-finals with the win and will face hosts Morocco in the last four, while Algeria’s AFCON campaign came to an end at the quarter-final stage.
