AFCON 2025 hit by disciplinary probe as CAF reviews quarter-final incidents
The Confederation of African Football has condemned what it described as unacceptable conduct by some players and officials during the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 and has opened investigations into incidents that occurred during two quarter-final matches.
In a statement published on Monday, January 12, 2026, CAF said it had gathered match reports and video evidence pointing to possible misconduct during the quarter-final encounters between Cameroon and Morocco, as well as Algeria and Nigeria.
“CAF has collected recent match reports and video evidence indicating potentially unacceptable behaviour from some players and officials and has opened an investigation into match incidents during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 quarter-final fixtures between Cameroon and Morocco, as well as Algeria and Nigeria,” the statement said.
CAF said the matters had been referred to its Disciplinary Board for further examination, adding that sanctions would be pursued should any individuals be found culpable.
“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,” it said.
The continental football governing body also disclosed that it was reviewing footage involving members of the media following allegations of misconduct in the mixed zone area after the matches.
“CAF is also reviewing footage of an incident involving members of the media who allegedly misbehaved in the mixed zone area,” the statement noted.
CAF reiterated its firm stance against misconduct at its competitions, particularly behaviour directed at match officials and organisers.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers,” the statement said. “Appropriate actions will be sought against anyone whose behaviour is not consistent with professional conduct at CAF events.”
The investigations follow two high-profile quarter-final matches that determined the semi-final line-up of the tournament. Nigeria secured a 2-0 victory over Algeria after a disciplined and efficient performance that saw the Super Eagles capitalise at key moments to advance.
Morocco also booked a place in the semi-finals after defeating Cameroon 2-0 on Friday evening at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with the Atlas Lions delivering a composed display in front of their home supporters.
CAF has not yet disclosed the specific incidents under review or named the individuals involved, but the outcome of the disciplinary process is expected to shape the conduct standards for the remainder of the tournament.
