By SUNTV Global Channel | Updated January 13, 2026
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea to take charge of Nigeria’s highly anticipated semi-final showdown against Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
CAF released the list of match officials on Tuesday ahead of the blockbuster encounter scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Laryea will be assisted by Zakhele Siwela of South Africa and Souru Phatsoane of Lesotho, while Arsénio Maringule of Mozambique will serve as the third assistant referee. Samuel Uwikunda of Rwanda has been named the fourth official.
For Video Assistant Referee (VAR) duties, CAF appointed Tom Abongile (South Africa), Haythem Guirat (Tunisia) and Stephen Yiembe (Kenya). Lydia Abebe will act as the referee assessor for the crucial semi-final fixture.
The Super Eagles head into the clash in fine form, fresh from a convincing 2–0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals. Nigeria have been one of the standout teams of the tournament, recording the highest number of goals so far with 14, as they chase a fourth AFCON title, having won the competition three times in the past.
Morocco also arrive with momentum after securing a 2–0 win over Cameroon, setting up a mouth-watering North Africa versus West Africa battle.
Speaking ahead of the match, Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi praised the team’s unity and growing maturity, insisting the players are determined to make history after finishing runners-up at the last AFCON.
“At previous AFCONs, we did really well, but we were young and still learning about each other,” the Fulham star said.
“Now, everyone is entering their prime and doing well at their clubs. You can see the joy and chemistry when we play for Nigeria. It’s not just on the pitch, but off it as well. We are a big family, and it starts from the coach who has built that brotherhood.”
With both teams in strong form and top officials appointed, fans across the continent are bracing for an explosive semi-final as Nigeria and Morocco battle for a place in the AFCON 2025 final.
— SUNTV Global Channel
