2025 AFCON: DR Congo’s Ndala to referee Senegal–Morocco final
18th January 2026
Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ngambo Ndala has been appointed to officiate Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and hosts Morocco, a showpiece clash expected to draw millions of viewers across the continent and beyond.
The Confederation of African Football confirmed that Ndala will be the man in the middle when the 2021 champions face the Atlas Lions in Rabat, entrusting the decisive fixture of AFCON 2025 to one of Africa’s most experienced officials.
Ndala will be assisted by fellow Congolese referees Guylain Ngila and Mwanya Mbilizi on the touchlines, underlining a strong Central African presence in the officiating team. South Africa’s Abongile Tom has been named as fourth official, while Comoros’ Styven Moyo will oversee the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
The appointment places Ndala at the heart of a high-stakes encounter between two of the continent’s heavyweights. Senegal are bidding to add to the title they won in 2021, while Morocco, backed by home support, are chasing a first AFCON crown since 1976.
With tensions likely to run high in a final of such magnitude, CAF’s choice of an experienced referee reflects the importance of calm authority and consistency on the biggest stage of African football.
Kick-off is scheduled for Sunday evening, as Senegal and Morocco prepare to battle for continental supremacy under Ndala’s watchful eye.