The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has chosen Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea to be the referee when the Super Eagles of Nigeria take on hosts Morocco in the semi-final of AFCON 2025.
The 39-year-old is widely regarded as one of top referees in Africa, and will also be officiating his second game at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The semi-final clash between the two footballing nations is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium, Rabat.
Some of the other match officials appointed to assist Laryea are: South Africa’s Zakhele Siwela (assistant referee one), and Lesotho’s Souru Phatsoane (assistant referee two).
Rwandan Samuel Uwikunda, will be the fourth official, while South Africa’s Abongile Tom will head the Video Assistant Referee team.
Laryea, who is recognised as one of Africa’s top referees has officiated in multiple AFCON editions, CAF Champions League, and Confederation Cup fixtures, consistently commanding respect for his fairness and ability to manage tense matches.
The 39-year-old was in charge of VAR during the quarter-final encounter between Morocco and Cameroon, and he also officiated the group stage game between Algeria and Burkina Faso.
The Ghanaian started his professional refereeing career at 17, officiating in Ghana’s lower leagues.
In 2012, at age 24, he made his debut in the Ghana Premier League in a match between Medeama and Berekum Chelsea. Two years later, he earned his FIFA badge, giving him opportunities for international assignments.
Since then, Laryea has officiated in numerous high-profile tournaments across Africa, including:
The 2017 CAF U-17 Cup of Nations in Gabon, 2018 WAFU Cup of Nations in Ghana, 2018 CHAN hosted by Morocco, and most recently the 2022 CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco, serving as AVAR in the final.
