AFCON Fallout: Algeria Set For Court Battle Over Nigeria Defeat
Algeria Threatens Legal Action After AFCON 2025 Exit to Nigeria
ALGERIA have signalled their intention to pursue legal action against the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations by Nigeria. The North African side crashed out of the tournament after a 2–0 quarter-final defeat to the Super Eagles, a result they insist was heavily influenced by controversial officiating.
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF), under the leadership of its president, Walid Sadi, has formally lodged appeals with both CAF and FIFA. The move comes amid reports that the federation was warned of possible sanctions over its strong post-match reaction to the defeat.
FAF officials argue that key refereeing decisions during the match unfairly tilted the contest in Nigeria’s favour, denying Algeria a fair chance to progress. While no specific incidents have been publicly itemised, sources within the federation say the referee’s handling of crucial moments had a decisive impact on the outcome.
Encouraged by a recent legal victory at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in the USM Alger case, Algeria appear ready for a prolonged confrontation. The federation has described CAF’s response to its complaints as an “abuse of power” and insists it will not be silenced by threats of disciplinary action.
“The legal battle has begun,” a source close to the FAF confirmed, adding that Algeria is prepared to escalate the matter to international football legal bodies if necessary.
CAF has yet to issue an official response, but the dispute has added to ongoing concerns about refereeing standards at AFCON 2025. Nigeria, meanwhile, have advanced in the competition and remain focused on their title push as the controversy continues off the pitch.
