The Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala has been chosen by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to officiate the first leg of the CAF Champions League final between Morocco’s AS FAR and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns. The highly anticipated match is scheduled for May 17 at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
From CAN controversy to continental final
At 38 years old, Ndala remains a prominent figure in African football after his controversial refereeing in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final between Senegal and Morocco. Despite the heated debates surrounding his VAR decisions—including a disallowed goal for Senegal and a controversial penalty for Morocco—the CAF has reaffirmed its trust in his abilities for major club competitions.
Ndala’s recent officiating resume includes high-stakes matches such as the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final between Al-Masry and CR Belouizdad on March 14 and the group-stage clash between Young Africans and JS Kabylie on February 5. His continuous selection highlights the CAF’s confidence in his experience, even amid past criticism.
Controversy and aftermath in CAN 2025 final
Ndala’s involvement in the CAN 2025 final in Rabat left a lasting impression due to key decisions that sparked widespread debate. A Senegal goal was ruled out after Ndala blew the whistle prematurely, preventing VAR review. Shortly after, VAR intervened to award Morocco a penalty for a foul on Brahim Díaz. The Senegal team protested by temporarily leaving the pitch, causing a delay in the match.
The game resumed, and Senegal won 1-0 in extra time. However, the CAF later overturned the result in March 2026, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory after determining that Senegal’s walk-off constituted a breach of competition regulations.
CAF’s unwavering confidence in Ndala
Despite the backlash, the CAF has continued to entrust Ndala with officiating crucial matches. According to IFAB regulations, referee decisions made during a match are final and cannot be challenged on sporting grounds. The first leg of the CAF Champions League final will take place on May 17 in Pretoria, followed by the second leg on May 24 in Rabat.
