Unnamed AFCON journalist caught ‘dancing naked’ in media tribune as CAF calls for action amid repeated unruly behaviour

After instances of poor or unprofessional behaviour from some in the media, CAF have threatened to withdraw accreditation for any journalist involved in wild celebrations, abuse of fellow reporters and taking a zero tolerance stance on fighting. They have also banned live streaming from mixed zones, the use of drones and other unauthorised filming inside stadiums. When new guidelines were being explained to media personnel on Friday, a CAF spokesperson relayed: "There was someone dancing naked in the media tribune. We cannot have that."

African football's governing body said: "CAF has noted the escalating unbecoming and unprofessional behaviour of some 'media practitioners' in working spaces at the Africa Cup of Nations. CAF met with the Local Organising Committee and police to discuss the situation and find workable solutions. While we understand that we are all football fans and are passionate about our national teams, journalists are expected to observe professional standards."

Ghana players were the subject of verbal abuse from journalists in the mixed zone following their 2-2 group stage draw with Mozambique, with manager Chris Hughton also heckled during a press conference. Host nation Ivory Coast encountered similar behaviour, while other games have experienced problems.

The weekend sees the continuation of AFCON's knockout rounds, with Nigeria and DR Congo already through to the semi-finals after winning their respective last-eight ties on Friday. Saturday evening sees Ivory Coast face Mali, with Cape Verde going up against South Africa for the remaining semi-final places. The competition will conclude with the final on February 11.