CAF Appoints Ghanaian Referee Daniel Laryea for Nigeria vs Morocco AFCON 2025 Semifinal
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) appoints experienced Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea, to officiate the highly anticipated 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semifinal between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and host nation Morocco.
OTN News further reports as gathered that the blockbuster encounter is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, with kickoff set for 8:00 p.m. GMT (9:00 p.m. Nigeria time).
OTN News observes that the match pitches three-time African champions Nigeria against Morocco, who are buoyed by home support and chasing their first AFCON title since 1976.
OTN News further observes that, Nigeria arrive at the semifinal in formidable form, maintaining a perfect record in the tournament and earning plaudits for their fluid attacking play and defensive solidity.
Morocco, meanwhile, continue their quest for continental glory on home soil, riding strong performances and vocal backing from their supporters.
Laryea, 39, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most respected referees and brings extensive experience to the high-stakes clash.
He has officiated in multiple AFCON tournaments, CAF Champions League matches, and other major continental competitions.
At the ongoing tournament, he previously served as head Video Assistant Referee (VAR) during Morocco’s quarter-final victory over Cameroon and took charge as center referee in the group-stage match between Algeria and Burkina Faso.
CAF’s decision to hand Laryea the whistle reflects confidence in his composure, neutrality, and ability to manage intense fixtures, particularly amid ongoing debates over officiating decisions at the tournament and scrutiny surrounding Morocco’s earlier matches.
To support him, CAF has assembled a multinational officiating crew. South Africa’s Zakhele Thusi Granville Siwela and Lesotho’s Souru Phatsoane will serve as assistant referees, while Rwanda’s Samuel Uwikunda is listed among officials acting as fourth official, subject to final confirmation.
The VAR team is led by South Africa’s Abongile Tom, assisted by Haythem Guirat of Tunisia and Stephen Onyango Yiembe of Kenya. Ethiopia’s Lidya Tafesse Abebe will act as referee assessor.
With a place in the AFCON final scheduled for January 18 at stake, expectations are high for a fiercely contested and emotionally charged semifinal.
Fans across the continent will be watching closely, not only to see whether Nigeria can continue their dominant run or Morocco can harness home advantage, but also to see Laryea ensure that the decisive moments are settled on the pitch.
The other AFCON semifinal will see reigning champions Senegal take on seven-time winners Egypt earlier the same day in Tangier, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion to Africa’s premier football tournament.
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