“Nigeria don’t need referee decisions to win” – Mandi defends Super Eagles after AFCON win over Algeria

“Nigeria don’t need referee decisions to win” – Mandi defends Super Eagles after AFCON win over Algeria

Algeria centre-back Aïssa Mandi has praised the quality of the Nigerian team following their 2–0 defeat to the Super Eagles in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The encounter, played on January 10, 2026, saw Nigeria secure a convincing victory to book their place in the semi-finals. However, the match was heavily overshadowed by controversy surrounding the officiating of Senegalese referee Issa Sy, which sparked intense reactions from the Algerian camp.

The most disputed moment came in the first half when the ball appeared to strike Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi’s hand inside the penalty area after deflecting off his thigh. Despite strong appeals from Algerian players, neither the referee nor VAR awarded a penalty. The decision triggered heated protests on the pitch and, according to post-match reports, tense scenes afterward, with some Algerian players and staff attempting to confront match officials.

In response, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) lodged an official complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), accusing the referee of bias. The federation cited the failure to award what they described as a “clear” penalty, questionable disciplinary decisions, and alleged disrespectful conduct, including claims of unequal handshakes at full time. They have called for Issa Sy to be removed from the remainder of the tournament.

Several Algerian players, including Rayan Aït-Nouri and captain Riyad Mahrez, voiced their frustration after the match, pointing to the denied penalty and other perceived fouls as key turning points.

However, Mandi adopted a calm and sportsmanlike tone in his post-match comments to reporters in the mixed zone. The Lille defender refused to attribute Algeria’s elimination to refereeing decisions and instead acknowledged Nigeria’s superiority.

“The Nigerian team doesn’t need this. They have a solid and very mature team. They have really good players, and that’s why they can perform well even without refereeing decisions. They’ve shown that since the start of the Africa Cup of Nations.”

Mandi’s remarks stood out amid the broader frustration within the Algerian delegation, underlining that Nigeria’s victory was earned through quality, organisation, and experience rather than external factors. The Super Eagles have been impressive throughout the tournament, displaying tactical discipline and individual brilliance against strong opposition, including an Algerian side filled with seasoned internationals.

His response offered a moment of sportsmanship in an otherwise heated aftermath. While debates over officiating continue to dominate discussions around the tie, Nigeria move deeper into the competition, and Algeria’s campaign ends though not without controversy on a note of respect from one of their most experienced defenders.