Algiers – Following its victory in the controversial jersey dispute with FIFA, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is preparing to launch another legal challenge, this time against the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The dispute stems from sanctions imposed by CAF following Algeria’s quarter-final match against Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations.
The FAF views the penalties handed down by CAF’s disciplinary committee as excessive and disproportionate. The federation has announced its intention to appeal the decisions, pursuing the matter to the highest possible level, including the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if necessary.
The sanctions include suspensions for players, most notably goalkeeper Luca Zidane, who received a two-match ban applicable in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Rফিক Bulgali was handed a four-match suspension, two of which are suspended. The FAF considers this punishment unduly harsh.
The FAF emphasizes that these suspensions, while not affecting World Cup qualifying matches, will still impact the national team, particularly as it undergoes a period of rebuilding. The absence of key players could prove detrimental to Algeria’s progress.
Beyond player suspensions, CAF has levied significant financial penalties against the FAF. A total of $30,000 USD has been imposed, with $5,000 for accumulating more than five yellow cards and $25,000 for alleged “unsportsmanlike conduct” following the game.
While such fines are not uncommon under CAF regulations, their timing and context have sparked considerable criticism within Algerian football circles.
Furthermore, the FAF faces a $70,000 USD fine related to the behavior of Algerian fans. The charges include the use of pyrotechnics, projectile throwing, inadequate security measures, and the display of paper money directed at the referee, which CAF deemed “offensive and insulting.” This particular penalty has raised questions about the extent to which Algeria should be held responsible for the actions of its supporters. The FAF will argue its case vigorously.
