Organizers condemn ‘unacceptable behavior of players and officials’ after fighting at Africa Cup

By: The Associated Press Posted: 6:02 AM CST Monday, Jan. 12, 2026 Last Modified: 6:14 AM CST Monday, Jan. 12, 2026

RABAT, Morocco (AP) — Organizers of the Africa Cup of Nations have condemned the “unacceptable behavior of players and officials” and is reviewing video evidence of journalists fighting after the quarterfinal between Algeria and Nigeria.

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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 12/01/2026 (266 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Confederation of African Football said Monday it was also investigating match incidents during the quarterfinal between Cameroon and host nation Morocco.

“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behavior which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers,” CAF said in a statement. “Appropriate actions will be sought against anyone whose behavior is not consistent with professional conduct at CAF events.”

Algeria's goalkeeper Luca Zidane, center, and teammates clash with Nigeria's players following the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal soccer match between Algeria and Nigeria in Marrakech, Morocco, Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe)

Scuffles broke out between players and team officials on the field after Algeria’s defeat by Nigeria in Marrakech on Saturday.

Referee Issa Sy was shielded from irate Algeria team staff and was escorted off the field. Video clips showed Sy was still being pursued in the mixed zone for media and broadcasters as he made his way to his cabin.

Video also showed accredited media fighting in the mixed zone as they waited for players to pass through for interviews after the match.

“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 said.