Belghali, Zidane suspended as CAF cites crowd disorder, safety breaches and offensive conduct

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a €100,000 fine on the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) following a series of incidents that erupted after Algeria’s match against Nigeria.

In an official disciplinary decision, CAF found Algeria guilty of multiple violations, including improper conduct, crowd disorder, safety breaches and offensive behaviour, all of which occurred in the aftermath of the high-profile encounter.

According to CAF, the sanctions include a €25,000 fine for bad behaviour, €50,000 for offensive gestures, €10,000 for breaching safety and security measures, as well as additional fines of €5,000 each for improper conduct, the use of flares and objects thrown by supporters. The cumulative penalties bring the total fine to €100,000, which CAF noted is equivalent to about $100,000.

Beyond the financial penalties, CAF also handed down disciplinary measures to Algerian players involved in the incident. Zidane has been suspended for two matches, while Rafik Belghali received a four-match ban, with two of those matches to be served during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

CAF said the sanctions were issued in line with its regulations on safety, security and conduct, stressing that such measures are necessary to maintain order and discipline in African football competitions.

The Algerian Football Federation has not yet publicly responded to the ruling.

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