By Trendsetter Tribune 
After Algeria’s 2–0 defeat to Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarter-final, frustration boiled over on the pitch. Multiple players from the Algerian national team confronted Senegalese referee Issa Sy and his officiating team following the final whistle, with video clips showing intense scenes and angry exchanges. Security had to step in to escort the referee off the field amid the heated aftermath.
Why Emotions Flared
The match was decided by goals from Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams as the Super Eagles secured a spot in the semifinals. Algeria’s players were visibly upset — especially after a potential penalty appeal involving a handball was waved away without a VAR review.
Post‑Match Tension
Footage circulating online shows the Algerian team approaching the referees near the tunnel, and in some clips a fiery exchange between Algeria’s goalkeeper Luca Zidane and Nigerian player Raphael Onyedika is also visible. Stadium security intervened to calm things down and prevent further escalation.
Video: Algerian Players confront Referee, Isaa Sy after they lost to Nigeria.
— Vanguard Newspapers (@vanguardngrnews) January 10, 2026
Credit: X // africafactzone pic.twitter.com/tCWkQ8dNSd
Context
The incident comes during one of Africa’s premier football tournaments, where high stakes and national pride often fuel passionate reactions. While Nigeria advances, the controversy around officiating has become a key talking point in social media discussions surrounding the match.