The African Football Confederation (CAF) has quickly sent a strong signal. Just a few weeks after the highly controversial final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, referee Jean-Jacques Ndala has already been assigned to another major match.
According to insider Micky Jnr, the Congolese referee has been appointed to officiate the final group stage match of the African Champions League, pitting Young Africans against JS Kabylie on February 15 in Zanzibar at 8 PM. This appointment is symbolic, as Ndala’s name remains linked to the Senegal-Morocco final (1-0 after extra time), which was played in a charged atmosphere.
A Final Still Fresh in Memory
During the Senegal-Morocco match, Katanga’s Jean-Jacques Ndala faced heavy criticism, especially for his management of the chaotic final minutes. The disallowed goal for Senegal and the penalty awarded to Morocco sparked massive controversy, as did the temporary departure of Senegalese players from the pitch.
Fouzi Lekjaa and the Moroccan Federation condemned what they deemed poor match management, calling for exemplary sanctions and a review of the match proceedings, while Senegalese fans protested against what they saw as favoritism towards Morocco.
However, some observers believe that the Congolese referee has little to answer for and was mainly under extreme pressure from an uncontrollable situation. The debate remains open, caught between an overwhelmed referee and an ideal scapegoat.
CAF Stands Firm and Maintains Its Trust
Despite media and political pressure, CAF has rallied behind Ndala. Not only has the continental body not sidelined him, but it has also renewed its trust in him, even congratulating him internally for managing a highly tense match. This clear and assertive support is seen as a message: CAF refuses to bow to dissent.
This stance takes on even more significance in a heated context, as Morocco recently announced its intention to appeal the decisions of the disciplinary committee. In this light, Ndala’s appointment for another high-stakes match appears almost as an act of authority from CAF.
