Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane was banned for two matches on Wednesday for on-field clashes following his team's elimination from the African Cup of Nations, but he should not miss the match against Lionel Messi and Argentina at the World Cup.
The Algerian federation said it will appeal against a series of sanctions, including bans on Zidane and defender Rafik Belghali, imposed by the Confederation of African Football.
Belghali was suspended for two games and two others postponed. Hellas Verona defender and Granada goalkeeper Zidane, the 27-year-old son of French great Zinedine Zidane, will serve his bans in qualifying for AFCON 2027. Algeria's qualifying group begins in September.
Algeria players and staff were involved in skirmishes on the field after a 2-0 loss to Nigeria in the quarterfinal match played on January 10 in Marrakech, Morocco.
The match referee, Issa Sy, was protected from the angry Algeria staff and escorted off the field.
The Algerian federation said its fines totaling $100,000 included charges of misconduct by players and staff, fans trying to break through security barriers and fans “showing bank notes” to match officials.
In the 2026 World Cup, Algeria will begin against defending champion Argentina in Kansas City on June 16. The group also includes Austria and Jordan.
