CAF fines Algeria $100,000, suspends players over misconduct at AFCON

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Algeria and Nigeria during the Africa Cup of Nations AFCON match between Algeria and Nigeria at the Grand Stade on January 10th, 2026 in Marrakech, Morocco. /CFP

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has fined the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) $100,000 and handed suspensions to two players over misconduct following Algeria's quarter-final loss to Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The penalties relate to violent scenes that broke out after Nigeria's 2–0 victory on January 10, when a confrontation involving players and officials erupted at the final whistle.

CAF cited improper conduct by Algerian players, officials, and supporters, as well as security failures at the stadium.

As part of the sanctions, goalkeeper Luca Zidane was handed a two-match ban, while defender Rafik Belghali received a four-match suspension. Both will serve their bans during the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

CAF said the fine also relates to incidents involving supporters, including attempts to invade the pitch and the waving of banknotes at match officials.

The FAF confirmed it plans to appeal the decision.

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