Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane has been handed a two-match suspension following disciplinary issues during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed on Wednesday. Zidane received the ban due to an on-field altercation that occurred after Algeria’s elimination from the tournament.
The incident leading to the suspension took place in the aftermath of Algeria’s final group stage match, which saw the team exit the tournament earlier than expected. Details surrounding the altercation remain limited, but CAF officials cited Zidane’s involvement in post-match disputes as grounds for disciplinary action. The two-match ban applies specifically to Africa Cup of Nations competitions.
Crucially for Algeria’s broader international campaign, the suspension does not extend to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This means Zidane will be eligible to participate when Algeria faces Argentina and other international opponents later in the year. The match against Argentina will be of particular interest due to the potential meeting between Zidane and Lionel Messi, should the Argentine star be included in his nation’s squad.
Zidane, who is the son of former French international and World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane, recently committed to representing Algeria at the senior international level. While his disciplinary record now includes one incident, his performances in the group stage had been under scrutiny as Algeria struggled to find form during the tournament.
The Algerian Football Federation has not issued a formal response to CAF’s decision. However, it is expected that Zidane will return to the squad for upcoming international fixtures outside the scope of AFCON play, including World Cup qualifiers and friendly matches.
The Africa Cup of Nations continues without Algeria, as teams proceed to the knockout rounds. Meanwhile, Zidane and the national team will shift their focus toward preparing for FIFA World Cup competition later in the year.
