The Confederation of African Football (CAF) said Monday it had opened an investigation and warned of possible disciplinary action after “potentially unacceptable behaviour” as players clashed on the pitch at the end of the Cup of Nations quarter-final between Algeria and Nigeria.
“CAF has referred the matters to the disciplinary board for investigation and has called for appropriate action to be taken if the identified persons were to be found guilty of any wrongdoing,”
“CAF is also reviewing footage of an incident involving members of the media who allegedly misbehaved in the mixed zone area,” the statement read.
Tensions spilled over on the pitch at the end of Saturday’s game in Marrakesh, which Nigeria won 2-0 thanks to second-half goals by Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams.
However, the match ended in chaos as Algerian players confronted match officials on the pitch, leading to scuffles and an attempted pitch invasion by fans that was thwarted by stadium security.
The Algerian Football Federation has since lodged a formal complaint with CAF.
They cited controversial refereeing decisions by Senegalese official Issa Sy, including a denied penalty for an alleged handball in the Nigerian box during the first half.
Separately, Morocco advanced with a 2-0 win over Cameroon, but the match was also marred by refereeing disputes.
Cameroon’s team felt aggrieved over two potential penalties not awarded, both involving Moroccan defender Adam Masina.
Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, dismissed suggestions of home-team bias in a post-match press conference.
CAF stressed its commitment to maintaining professional conduct at all events.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers.
Any disciplinary action could have an impact on the Super Eagles as they prepare for their semi-final showdown on Wednesday against Morocco.
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Morocco won that game 2-0 in Rabat and the Indomitable Lions were notably unhappy at the officiating, in particular the refusal to award them a penalty for a challenge on Manchester United’s Bryan Mbeumo in the second half.
AFP