Story of Jean -Jacques Ndala, Referee Who Officiated the Morocco Vs Senegal AFCON Final

Jean Jacques Ndala’s appointment to officiate the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 final between hosts Morocco and Senegal was a powerful statement of confidence from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Ndala has been the subject of discussion after awarding Morocco a penalty kick in the final minutes of the game.

His decision came a few minutes after Senegal scored, but he cancelled the goal, ruling that Hakimi had been fouled.

Senegal players staged a walkout from the pitch before Sadio Mané encouraged them to return.

Although Brahim Díaz missed the penalty, Ndala has faced heavy criticism over the two decisions.

A FIFA-listed referee since 2013, Ndala has built a reputation for composure, authority, and excellent game management.

His calm demeanor and firm control have made him a trusted figure in matches where discipline, fairness, and decisiveness are critical.

The AFCON 2025 final marked his fourth appearance at Africa’s biggest football tournament, having previously officiated at the 2019, 2021, and 2023 editions, a rare achievement that underlines his consistency at the top level.

Impressive Record Across Major Finals

Born on 14 June 1987, the 38-year-old official from the Democratic Republic of Congo has steadily risen through the ranks of African and international officiating.

Over the years, Ndala has handled a heavy workload across major competitions, including FIFA World Cup qualifiers, CAF Champions League, CAF Confederation Cup, AFCON qualifiers, international friendlies, and youth tournaments.

His disciplinary record reflects a referee who maintains control without excess.

Also Read: AFCON 2025: Senegal Issues Demands to CAF Ahead of Final Clash with Morocco

Across CAF Champions League matches alone, Ndala has officiated 24 games, issuing 70 yellow cards, one second yellow leading to a red, and two straight red cards.

In AFCON competitions and qualifiers, he has overseen dozens of matches, balancing firmness with fairness while allowing the game to flow.

His experience also spans global tournaments, including the FIFA U-20 World Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Also Read: Story of Mohamed Ghonemi: The CAF Official Behind AFCON 2025’s Official Match Ball

Ndala’s resume is further strengthened by a remarkable list of finals refereed.

In addition to the AFCON 2025 final, he previously took charge of the CAF Champions League final (2023/2024) between Al Ahly SC and Esperance, the African Football League final featuring Mamelodi Sundowns and Wydad AC, the CAF Confederation Cup final in 2022/2023, and the CAF Super Cup in 2021/2022.

These appointments highlight the immense trust placed in him to deliver on the biggest stages.

Africa On the Global Stage

CAF’s decision to appoint Ndala for both the opening match and the final of AFCON Morocco 2025 reflects a broader strategy of rewarding officials who consistently perform at the highest level.

His steady rise has also positioned him among African referees considered for future global assignments, showcasing the growing influence and quality of African officiating on the world stage.

Jean Jacques Ndala’s journey is not just one of personal achievement but also a symbol of Africa’s progress in elite refereeing.

With discipline, professionalism, and unwavering focus, he continues to set a standard for referees across the continent and beyond

Follow Our WhatsApp Channel for Instant News Updates

The image shows Jean -Jacques Ndala, a FIFA-listed referee from DR Congo
Image/FIFA/X.