The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has named a new centre referee for the quarter-final clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Desert Foxes of Algeria for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a statement released, CAF confirmed that the highly anticipated encounter will now be officiated by Senegalese referee Issa Sy, as the continental body moved swiftly to ensure full compliance with tournament regulations.
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Sy will take charge of the match scheduled to be played at the Grand Stade de Marrakech. He previously served as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) during Morocco’s Round of 16 encounter with Tanzania.
Somali official Omar Artan had earlier been appointed to officiate the fixture. However, Artan, who was named Africa’s best referee in 2025, was withdrawn after reportedly violating CAF’s sponsorship regulations.
According to CAF, the decision followed an incident in which Artan wore boots from a brand not approved by the tournament’s official sponsors during an earlier match.
Djibril Camara and Nouha Bangoura will assist Issa Sy as assistant referees, while Gilbert Kipkoech Cheruiyot and Peter Kamaku will serve in the additional officiating roles, including fourth official duties.
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team for the match will comprise Pierre Atcho, Stephen Yiembe, Letticia Viana, and Yahya Hadqa, providing technological support for key decisions during the encounter.
