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Referee Jean-Jacques Ndala appointed to officiate TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025 Final

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Jean Jacques Ndala has been appointed to take charge of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 final between hosts Morocco and Senegal, completing a symbolic journey from the tournament’s opening match to its showpiece finale.

The final will be played on Sunday, 18 January 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT, bringing Africa’s premier football competition to a close.

Ndala had earlier been entrusted with officiating the opening match of the tournament, and his selection for the final underlines CAF’s confidence in one of the continent’s most experienced and reliable referees.

CAF rewards consistency and experience

A FIFA-listed referee since 2013, Ndala is widely regarded for his composure, authority and game management in high-pressure fixtures.

The Democratic Republic of Congo official is officiating at his fourth Africa Cup of Nations, having previously featured at the 2019, 2021 and 2023 editions.

His appointment to both the opening fixture and the final reflects CAF’s trust in officials who have consistently delivered at the highest level, including across the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, CAF Confederation Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Ndala’s steady rise has also placed him among referees considered for future global assignments, highlighting Africa’s growing presence in elite international officiating.

Experienced officiating team for the final

For Sunday’s final, Ndala will be supported by an experienced multinational team of officials, reinforcing CAF’s emphasis on balance, neutrality and technical excellence:

  • Assistant Referee 1: Guylain Bongele Ngila (DR Congo)

  • Assistant Referee 2: Gradel Mwanya Mbilizi (DR Congo)

  • Assistant Referee 3: Styven Moutsassi Moyo (Republic of Congo)

  • Fourth Official: Abongile Tom (South Africa)

In the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) booth, CAF has again appointed a highly trusted team:

  • VAR: Pierre Ghislain Atcho (Gabon)

  • Assistant VAR 1: Leticia Viana (Eswatini)

  • Assistant VAR 2: Stephane Eleazar Yiembé (Congo)

  • Referee Assessor: René Daniel Louzaya (Republic of Congo)

The composition of the VAR and officiating teams reflects CAF’s continued focus on accuracy, transparency and match control at decisive stages of the competition.

A fitting close to AFCON 2025

The final between Morocco and Senegal represents the climax of a tournament that has delivered high drama, record crowds and intense competition.

With continental pride and history on the line, CAF’s decision to appoint Ndala — a referee trusted from the very first whistle of the tournament — provides continuity and stability for African football’s biggest night.

As AFCON 2025 reaches its conclusion in Rabat, Ndala’s appointment stands as a strong endorsement of African refereeing quality and CAF’s long-term investment in elite officiating standards.