Mahrez Questions Refereeing but Admits Nigeria Were Better in AFCON Exit

Algeria captain, Riyad Mahrez, has raised concerns over the performance of Senegalese referee Issa Sy following his side’s 2–0 defeat to Nigeria in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday.

The Super Eagles secured their place in the semi-finals with second-half goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams, ending Algeria’s title hopes. Despite the loss, post-match discussions were dominated by debates over officiating, with Algerian supporters and players claiming they were denied a clear penalty during the first half.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Mahrez acknowledged that the referee’s decisions were not flawless, but stopped short of blaming them entirely for Algeria’s exit.
“I think the referee was not perfect, but that is not why we lost. We still have to mention it because it is football,” Mahrez said.
He added, “Today they are better; we have to shake their hands and be honest.”

Algeria’s camp believes several calls went against them, including the controversial penalty incident, which they feel could have changed the course of the game. However, even amid the frustration, Mahrez’s comments struck a balance between disappointment and respect for the opposition.

From a neutral perspective, refereeing debates are almost inevitable at this stage of a major tournament, especially when emotions are high. Yet, beyond the controversy, Nigeria’s performance spoke loudly. The Super Eagles showed greater control, physical strength and cutting edge in the second half, qualities that ultimately separated both sides.

While officiating decisions will continue to be debated among fans, the reality remains that Nigeria took their chances and Algeria did not. Mahrez’s final admission — that Nigeria were the better team on the day — perhaps carries more weight than any argument about refereeing.

As the tournament progresses, moments like these underline a simple truth in football: referees may influence matches, but dominant performances often remove any doubt. For Nigeria, the focus now shifts to their semi-final clash, while Algeria are left to reflect on what might have been.