The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has named experienced Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea as the center referee for the highly anticipated 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semifinal clash between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and host nation Morocco.
The match, scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, kicks off at 8:00 p.m. GMT (9:00 p.m. WAT/Nigeria time). It pits three-time champions Nigeria, who have maintained a perfect record in the tournament with impressive attacking displays, against Morocco, who are riding home support and aiming for their first AFCON title since 1976.
Laryea, widely regarded as one of Africa’s top officials, brings a wealth of experience to the high-stakes encounter. The 39-year-old has officiated in multiple AFCON editions, CAF Champions League fixtures, and other continental competitions, earning praise for his composure, fairness, and ability to manage tense games. During the current tournament, he previously served as head VAR in Morocco’s quarter-final win over Cameroon and was the center referee in a group-stage match between Algeria and Burkina Faso.
CAF has assembled a multinational officiating team to support Laryea:
- Assistant Referee 1: Zakhele Thusi Granville Siwela (South Africa)
- Assistant Referee 2: Souru Phatsoane (Lesotho)
- Assistant Referee 3 / Fourth Official: Samuel Uwikunda (Rwanda) or related team members (variations noted across reports)
- VAR: Abongile Tom (South Africa), assisted by Haythem Guirat (Tunisia) and Stephen Onyango Yiembe (Kenya)
- Referee Assessor: Lidya Tafesse Abebe (Ethiopia)
This appointment reflects CAF’s confidence in Laryea’s judgment amid a tournament where refereeing decisions have sparked debates, including perceptions around Morocco’s earlier matches. The Ghanaian official’s selection is seen as a vote for neutrality and control in what promises to be a fiery contest with a spot in the final on January 18 at stake.Fans across Africa are eagerly awaiting the outcome, with Nigeria chasing continental glory and Morocco looking to capitalize on home advantage. All eyes will be on Laryea to ensure the game is decided on the pitch.The other semifinal sees Senegal face Egypt earlier in Tangier.
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