CAF names Ghanaian referee for Nigeria vs Morocco AFCON semi-final
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea to officiate Nigeria's AFCON semi-final against Morocco on Sunday, January 14, 2026, at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Laryea will be assisted by South Africa's Zakhele Siwela and Lesotho's Souru Phatsoane, with Mozambican Arsénio Maringule as third assistant. Rwanda's Samuel Uwikunda serves as fourth official.
VAR officials include South Africa's Tom Abongile, Tunisia's Haythem Guirat, and Kenya's Stephen Yiembe, with Lydia Abebe as referee assessor. The Super Eagles enter the match after a commanding 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria, having scored 14 goals—the tournament's highest tally. Morocco also advanced with a 2-0 win against Cameroon.
Midfielder Alex Iwobi highlighted Nigeria's squad unity: "Everybody is entering their prime, doing well for their clubs. We have joy and chemistry playing for our country—big unity off the pitch, a big family. It starts from the coach who brought that brotherhood." Nigeria seeks their fourth AFCON title against a Morocco side aiming to add to their 1976 championship.
With both teams in strong form and Nigeria's attacking record, which approach will prove decisive—Nigeria's high-scoring offense or Morocco's disciplined defense? Will you be watching Sunday's clash?