Angry Algerian players and officials confronted referee Isaa Sy following their 2–0 defeat to Nigeria in the quarter-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The situation became tense after the final whistle, with Sy reportedly escorted into the dressing room for his safety as Algerian supporters clashed with stadium security. Officials of the Desert Foxes were also seen confronting the referee on the pitch.
The confrontation later spilled into the tunnel, where Algerian players and officials allegedly continued to harass the match official. Reports indicate that the North Africans were dissatisfied with some of Sy’s decisions during the encounter.
Nigeria sealed the victory with second-half goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams, a result that booked the Super Eagles a semi-final showdown with tournament hosts Morocco.