Algerian Ligue 1: Referees Houssem Benyahia and Ghada Mahat suspended after JS Kabylie’s complaint upheld

Referees Houssem Benyahia and Ghada Mahat have been suspended indefinitely after the Federal Arbitration Commission (CFA) ruled in favour of JS Kabylie’s complaint concerning officiating errors during their recent league match against CS Constantine.

The CFA delivered its decision following an extensive review of the encounter, which took place on Sunday, 9 November 2025, as part of the eleventh round of the Algerian Ligue 1 season.

The match had sparked controversy over several disputed refereeing calls, prompting JS Kabylie to lodge an official protest.

After examining the match footage and reports, the commission identified multiple officiating errors.

Among them were three potential penalty incidents that went unawarded to CS Constantine, as well as a lack of coordination between the on-field referee, Benyahia, and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) official, Mahat.

These shortcomings, according to the CFA, undermined the integrity of the match and fell short of professional refereeing standards.

The disciplinary measure was confirmed following a hearing in which JS Kabylie’s representatives presented their case before the commission, led by its president, Mehdi Abid-Charef.

His panel concluded that the level of officiating warranted immediate suspension of both officials “until further notice,” pending additional assessment by the Algerian Football Federation (FAF).

The CFA’s ruling has been widely interpreted as part of a broader effort to restore trust and accountability within Algerian refereeing.

Recent weeks have seen growing criticism from clubs and supporters over inconsistent decisions and a perceived decline in the quality of match officiating.

By taking decisive action, the commission signalled its intention to uphold fairness and maintain the credibility of the domestic championship.

For JS Kabylie, the decision represents a moral victory, particularly as the club prepares for its high-profile CAF Champions League clash against Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

The timing of the ruling offers some vindication to the team, which had voiced frustration over what it considered a pattern of unfavourable officiating in recent fixtures.

While no official replacements for Benyahia and Mahat have yet been announced, the FAF is expected to reassign match officials in the coming days to prevent disruption to the league calendar.

The suspensions underscore the increasing scrutiny placed on referees across Algerian football, with authorities keen to reinforce discipline, transparency, and professionalism within the sport’s governing structures.