Controversial Moment: Did Senegalese Issa Sy Deny Nigeria a Valid Goal Against Algeria?

Senegalese referee Issa Sy sparked widespread controversy following a contentious officiating decision during the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final match between Algeria and Nigeria, held at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.

The Nigerian national team posed a genuine threat to Algeria's goal when the ball appeared to cross the goal line before being cleared by defender Aïssa Mandi. However, television replays suggested that the entire circumference of the ball had indeed crossed the line, potentially denying Nigeria a legitimate goal.

The incident generated significant debate on social media, with many questioning the referee's decision, especially as the match remained goalless at the end of the first half.

The encounter continues to be a "heated" African showdown, given its importance as a quarter-final fixture in the continental competition and its role in determining Morocco's next opponent.