DR ‹ › The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued its ruling following the incidents that marked the end of the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final between Algeria and Nigeria. Eliminated after a 2–0 defeat, the Fennecs saw the match conclude in an extremely tense atmosphere, with scuffles and heated exchanges breaking out after the final whistle. According to the findings of the disciplinary investigation launched by CAF, several actions were deemed to be in violation of competition regulations. The match referee had to be escorted off the pitch by security personnel, while Rafik Belghali followed the officiating team into the stadium corridors. Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane was also involved in altercations with Nigerian players after the match. On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) announced the sanctions imposed by the continental body. Rafik Belghali was handed a four-match suspension, with two matches suspended, while Luca Zidane received a two-match ban. Both suspensions will be served during the first qualifying matches for the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations. In addition, the FAF was fined $100,000. While communicating these decisions, the Algerian Federation stated its intention to challenge the sanctions, which it considers disproportionate. The FAF said it plans to initiate an appeal process and remains determined to defend the interests of Algerian football within a framework of institutional and regulatory respect.
