The controversy surrounding the Algeria-Burkina Faso match on November 19 has reached its conclusion, as FIFA decided not to respond to Burkina Faso’s appeal against Badara Diatta, the match referee. The Burkina Faso national team had filed multiple appeals to FIFA, seeking to disqualify Algeria from the match.
Earlier, an appeal against Majid Bougherra, accused of playing despite a suspension, was also rejected by FIFA. The latest decision from FIFA, confirming that “the referee’s decisions are final and without appeal,” puts an end to the dispute.
This decision may not sit well with Burkina Faso’s coach, Paul Put, who harbors resentment against the Senegalese referee. In expressing his dissatisfaction, Put described the match as having a “suspicious achievement” due to questionable decisions, including an alleged offside and a goal marred by an irregular hand. He further criticized the referee for calling small fouls when Burkina Faso was in possession of the ball.
The controversy surrounding this match has been a point of discussion in the football community, raising questions about officiating and fair play in international competitions.