Jean-Jacques Ndala is once again making headlines. The respected referee, renowned for officiating the CAN 2025 final, has been chosen to preside over the first leg of the CAF Champions League final. This highly anticipated match will feature Mamelodi Sundowns battling AS FAR Rabat in Pretoria.

This particular appointment has sparked considerable debate within football circles. Many observers are drawing attention to the fact that the Congolese official was notably absent from the roster of African referees selected for the forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, creating a point of contention regarding his recent high-profile assignments.

Following his prominent role in the CAN 2025 final, Ndala is now set to take charge of another significant continental showpiece: the CAF Champions League final, which will pit Mamelodi Sundowns against AS FAR.

The inaugural leg of the CAF Champions League final has been officially confirmed for May 17, 2026. The match is scheduled to kick off at 14:00 GMT at the iconic Loftus Versfeld Stadium.