The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has filed formal complaints with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) over what it described as controversial refereeing decisions in its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final defeat to Nigeria.
FAF confirmed the move on Monday in a statement posted on 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.
According to the federation, the refereeing calls raised serious questions and sparked widespread dissatisfaction, undermining confidence in African refereeing and damaging the image of African football internationally.
“The Algerian Football Federation cannot ignore the refereeing decisions in the last match, which raised many questions and caused widespread dissatisfaction,” the statement said.
The federation said it had formally contacted CAF and FIFA to seek clarification on the decisions taken during the match and to ensure that any breaches of regulations are addressed. It also reportedly called for sanctions against the match referee, Issa Sy.
Algeria crashed out of the tournament after losing 2–0 to Nigeria on Saturday. Goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams secured the Super Eagles’ place in the semi-finals.
The match ended in heated scenes, with Algerian players confronting match officials after the final whistle. Videos circulating online showed arguments on the pitch and an attempted pitch invasion by fans, which was eventually prevented by security personnel.
CAF confirmed on Monday that it has opened an investigation into alleged misconduct during the game, saying match officials’ reports and video evidence had been referred to its Disciplinary Board for review.
Despite the controversy, FAF urged fans to continue supporting the national team, describing the squad as being in a rebuilding phase and expressing confidence in the players and technical crew as preparations begin for future competitions, including the 2026 World Cup.
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