Jean-Jacques Ndala to Officiate 2025 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Final
Jean-Jacques Ndala has been appointed as the referee for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. This match will take place on January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. Ndala’s officiating journey began at the tournament’s opening match, now culminating in the prestigious final between Morocco and Senegal.
Event Details
The AFCON 2025 final is set to kickoff at 19:00 GMT. This significant event marks the end of Africa’s premier football competition, showcasing the continent’s top teams.
Ndala’s Refereeing Credentials
- FIFA-listed referee since 2013
- Officiated at four AFCON tournaments (2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025)
- Known for composure, authority, and game management
Ndala’s selection for the final by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) exemplifies confidence in his abilities as a reliable figure in high-pressure situations. His consistent performance at various competitions, including the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, has solidified his reputation.
Officiating Team for the Final
Ndala will be supported by a skilled and diverse officiating team:
- 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)
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team includes:
- 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)
Significance of the 2025 AFCON Final
The final represents the pinnacle of a tournament filled with thrilling moments and record attendance. This match not only denotes a clash for the championship but also emphasizes the importance of stability and continuity in officiating for African football. Ndala’s role in both the opening match and the final serves as a testament to the quality and growth of African referees in international football.
