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AFCON 2025: How Referee Controversies Shaped The Quarter-Final Results

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 was never short on drama — and perhaps it will be remembered just as much for its refereeing controversies as for the football on the pitch. The quarter-finals, in particular, became a flashpoint for questions about officiating standards, VAR usage, referee appointments and the very credibility of continental football governance. From Nigeria vs Algeria to Cameroon vs Morocco, and controversies in Mali vs Senegal, the referees were thrust into the spotlight — often for all the wrong reasons. The debates that followed didn’t just revolve around isolated decisions; they struck at the heart of how fairness, transparency and even respect are perceived in African football. Quarter-Final Showdowns and the Sparks of Dispute Nigeria vs Algeria (2–0): A Penalty That Never Came Match result: Nigeria defeated Algeria 2–0 to reach the AFCON semi-finals. Yet, the focus after this match wasn’t only on the football. It was on the refereeing narrative that domina...

Arsenal makes Premier League history with Spurs' triumph.

Arsenal captured a small piece of Premier League history on Saturday by defeating arch rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

The Gunners defeated their north London rivals courtesy to a second-half header from centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes and a strong defensive display.

It was their third consecutive away victory over Spurs, a feat they had never accomplished in the Premier League - or at all since 1953.

"It's unbelievable," Mikel Arteta told BBC Match of the Day following the final whistle. "I'm not sure when it happened in our history.

"After the international break, we received a few knocks. The team's reaction was spectacular. It demonstrated a high level of team maturity.


"When they reach the last third, it's quite difficult because they have a structure. We were lacking key players and had to adapt. I'm quite satisfied.

"We had to adapt and utilize various players and attributes. I hoped they'd do something with the ball, and we did. Sometimes better than others. They are a really good side.

"When we had to defend in deeper regions, we did quite well. There is still room for improvement, but we have another significant victory. I know how our supporters will react to this, so enjoy it."

Arsenal's next Champions League match comes against Atalanta in Bergamo on Thursday, followed by a massive Premier League showdown against Manchester City the following Sunday.

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