The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has announced it is contesting sanctions issued by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The sanctions stem from incidents that occurred after Algeria’s quarter-final match against Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
CAF has imposed a series of sporting and financial penalties on the Algerian national team. Goalkeeper Luca Zidane has received a two-match suspension, which will apply during the qualifying phase for the 2027 AFCON. Team official Rafik Belghali has been given a four-match suspension, with two of those matches suspended.
In addition to the sporting bans, the FAF has been handed a financial penalty. CAF has levied a total fine of $100,000 against the federation. This sum is broken down into several charges: $5,000 for improper team conduct related to yellow and red cards, $25,000 for inappropriate behavior by players and officials, $5,000 for the use of flares, $5,000 for throwing objects, $10,000 for a failure to respect security measures, and a substantial $50,000 fine for offensive gestures directed towards the match referees.
Algeria Football Federation has launched an appeal against CAF’s decision. The federation is formally contesting all aspects of the sanctions.
The case is now expected to proceed through CAF’s official appeals process, with the FAF seeking to have the penalties reduced or overturned.