Nigeria’s 2–0 victory over Algeria at the AFCON 2025 quarter-final has turned from football celebration to full-blown VAR Wahala, thanks to a controversial moment that has Algerian fans screaming “robbery!” on X.
The Incident That Caused The Problem
In the 12th minute, Algeria’s Yacine Brahimi fired a fierce shot inside Nigeria’s box which appeared to strike Semi Ajayi’s arm. Algeria FC immediately took to X, insisting it was a stone-cold penalty and accusing officials of daylight robbery.
Their caption was loud and direct: “If you don’t think this is a penalty, you need to stop watching football.”
Nigerians Says: Ball First, Arm Later
While Algerian fans insist the referee bottled it, Nigerians argue that the ball clearly made contact with Ajayi’s knee before touching his arm a detail that, under football laws, cancels out any handball drama.
Others also pointed to proximity rules, claiming the shot was too close for Ajayi to reasonably react, making the penalty appeal a stretch.
Scoreboard Doesn’t Care
Despite the online firestorm, Nigeria stayed focused on what actually matters goals. Akor Adams delivered the goods, and the Super Eagles calmly sealed a 2–0 win, sending Algeria packing and advancing Nigeria further in the tournament.
Some Nigerian fans even reminded Algeria that complaints aside, the better team on the night still won and football has no sympathy for vibes.
AFCON 2025 and the VAR Wahala Trend
This match is just another chapter in AFCON 2025’s growing list of controversial officiating decisions. From Morocco to Egypt and now Algeria, VAR debates have become almost as popular as the goals themselves.
Algeria may feel hard done by, but Nigeria is through, relaxed, and waiting for the next opponent. As for the penalty debate?
It will trend today… and be forgotten by kickoff tomorrow
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