CAF - CAN 2025: heavy sanctions against Algeria

CAF sanctions: Algeria hit hard

AFCON 21 January 2026 at 10:30

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CAF - CAN 2025: heavy sanctions against Algeria

The turbulent evening of the CAN 2025 quarter-final against Nigeria continues to have repercussions. In an official statement, the Algerian Football Federation confirmed the sanctions imposed by the disciplinary committee of the Confederation of African Football, following what were deemed to be serious incidents at the end of the match. The decision is severe, impacting players, the federation, and supporters alike.

A disciplinary ruling with multiple consequences

On the sporting front, goalkeeper Luca Zidane has been handed a two-match suspension, while defender Rafik Belghali received a four-game ban, two of which are suspended, all to be served during the CAN 2027 qualifiers. In addition, the FAF was hit with several fines for the national team's misconduct and the inappropriate behavior of certain players and officials after the final whistle.

The fans were not spared either. The use of flares, throwing objects, attempts to breach security, and offensive gestures towards the refereeing team resulted in a series of substantial financial penalties, pushing the total to an almost unprecedented level for such cases. In response, the FAF announced that it has immediately initiated the appeals procedures provided for in the regulations, affirming its commitment to defending Algerian football's interests through institutional channels.