CAF to address disciplinary issues ahead of AFCON semifinal showdown

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has strongly condemned what it described as unacceptable behaviour by some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 quarter-final matches. 

The incidents occurred during the fixtures between Cameroon and Morocco and Algeria and Nigeria.

In a statement released on Monday, CAF confirmed that it has reviewed official match reports and video footage that point to potential misconduct during the two quarter-final encounters. As a result, the continental governing body has opened a formal investigation into the incidents.

CAF announced that the matters have been referred to its Disciplinary Board, which will examine the evidence and determine whether any individuals breached CAF regulations. 

The organization stated that appropriate sanctions would be imposed should those involved be found guilty of wrongdoing.

In addition to on-field incidents, CAF revealed that it is also reviewing video footage related to an alleged case of misconduct involving members of the media in the mixed zone area. 

This review forms part of CAF’s broader effort to uphold professional standards at its competitions. The football body reiterated its zero-tolerance stance toward any inappropriate behaviour, particularly actions directed at match officials or tournament organizers. 

CAF emphasized that such conduct undermines the integrity of its competitions and will not be tolerated at any CAF-sanctioned events.

CAF concluded by reaffirming its commitment to maintaining discipline, professionalism, and respect throughout the tournament. Further updates are expected once the Disciplinary Board completes its investigation and reaches its decisions on the reported incidents.

The semifinals of the AFCON 2025 will be held on Wednesday, with Egypt against Senegal, while hosts Morocco face Nigeria later in Rabat.

Nigeria saw Victor Osimehn and Akor Adams score in their 2-0 win over Algeria, while Morocco comfortably eased past Cameroon.

Egypt knocked out defending champions Ivory Coast, and Senegal beat Mali 1-0 in the quarter-final.