Jean-Jacques Ndala to Lead Officiating Team for Morocco vs. Comoros
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed one of the continent’s most seasoned officiating teams to manage the opening fixture between Morocco and Comoros. Leading the crew is Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala Ngambo, a veteran official whose selection signals CAF’s intent to ensure a firm and experienced hand governs the tournament’s first whistle.
Ndala, 38, is no stranger to the grand stage. A FIFA-listed referee since 2013, this marks his fourth consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournament, having served in the 2019, 2021, and 2023 editions. His reputation for composure and consistency has seen him become a staple in the CAF Champions League and high-stakes World Cup qualifiers. His appointment for the 2025 opener is particularly significant as he is currently shortlisted for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making this tournament a vital showcase of his readiness for the global stage.
Supporting Ndala on the pitch will be a specialized team from the central African region. Fellow Congolese officials Guylain Bongele Ngila and Mwanya Gradel Mbilizi will serve as the first and second assistant referees. The role of fourth official has been handed to Messie Nkounkou Mvoutou from the Republic of Congo, completing an on-field unit that shares a common language and extensive experience working together in continental competitions.
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) room will be managed by one of the most trusted tactical eyes in African refereeing, Mauritania’s Dahane Beida. Beida, who famously officiated the 2023 AFCON final in Ivory Coast, is widely considered a gold standard for VAR precision on the continent. He will be assisted by his compatriot Babacar Sarr, while the overall performance of the crew will be monitored by Referee Assessor René Daniel Louzaya from the Republic of Congo.
This selection highlights a clear strategy by CAF to prioritize “calm authority” for the opening ceremony. Given the immense atmosphere expected at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium and the historical tendency for opening matches to be physically intense, Ndala’s ability to manage player temperaments and big-game nerves will be as crucial as his technical decision-making.
