TANGIER, Morocco – CAF has issued a stern condemnation of ‘unacceptable behaviour’ following a series of high-tension incidents during the quarter-final stage of the ongoing 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
In an official statement released on Monday, January 12, 2026, the continental governing body confirmed it has launched a formal investigation into disruptions involving players, officials, and media personnel.
The probe specifically targets two high-profile matches: the clash between hosts Morocco and Cameroon, and the heated encounter between Algeria and Nigeria.
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While the quarter-finals delivered world-class football, including Morocco’s 2-0 victory over Cameroon and Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Algeria, the matches were marred by scenes of disorder.
CAF revealed that match reports and video footage indicate conduct inconsistent with the standards of professional fair play. Reports from the Algeria-Nigeria match in Marrakech described ‘violent scenes’ at the final whistle, with players allegedly surrounding the Senegalese referee, Issa Sy, and protesting aggressively.
CAF is also reviewing footage from the ‘mixed zone’, which FARPost witnessed, where players and journalists interact. Allegations have surfaced of media members misbehaving, with some reports suggesting physical and verbal altercations occurred between rival press corps.
CAF expressed particular concern over behaviour directed at refereeing teams and match organisers, reiterating a zero-tolerance policy for such actions.
The cases have been fast-tracked to the CAF Disciplinary Board. The board is tasked with reviewing all available evidence, including video feeds and referee reports, to determine the severity of the offences.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour… Appropriate actions will be sought against anyone whose behaviour is not consistent with professional conduct at CAF events,” the statement read.
Potential sanctions could range from heavy financial fines to player suspensions to the revocation of credentials for media members found guilty of wrongdoing.
The investigations come as Morocco 2025 enters its most decisive phase. Despite the off-field drama, the semi-final matchups are set. Hosts Morocco will face Nigeria in Rabat, while Senegal takes on Egypt in Tangier.
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