Football/ Algeria files official complaint with FIFA following controversial AFCON exit
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign of Algeria, which began with a perfect group stage, ended in acrimony after a quarter-final defeat to Nigeria. The Algerian Football Federation has lodged a formal complaint with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), citing “questionable refereeing decisions” that they believe damaged the credibility of the match.
The Fennecs, led by Riyad Mahrez, fell to a superior Nigerian side but contested several key incidents during the game.
Players vehemently protested a potential handball in the Nigerian area, among other decisions.
The statement of the federation emphasized the team’s effort but argued the officiating “harmed the credibility of African refereeing” and tarnished the continent’s football image internationally.
While acknowledging the result and calling for fan unity ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers, the federation has demanded an investigation.
This move escalates the matter beyond the already-opened probe of CAF into the tense encounter, marking a significant formal challenge to the tournament’s officiating.
