CAF Champions League Final: Congolese Referee Jean-Jacques Ndala Appointed for First Leg
The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has named Jean-Jacques Ndala, a referee from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to officiate the first leg of the CAF Champions League final between Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR. The highly anticipated match is scheduled for May 17 at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa.
Ndala Returns to the Spotlight After Controversial CAN Final
At 38 years old, Ndala is no stranger to high-stakes fixtures. He was the head referee for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final, a game that sparked intense debate. Controversial decisions, including a disallowed goal for Senegal and a late penalty for Morocco, led to a brief pitch invasion by Senegalese players. Despite the uproar, the CAF has reaffirmed its trust in Ndala, citing his consistent performance in recent continental competitions.
Proven Track Record in Major Matches
Since the CAN 2025, Ndala has officiated several key fixtures, including:
- Young Africans vs. JS Kabylie (group stage, February 5)
- Al-Masry vs. CR Belouizdad (CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal, March 14)
His latest assignment—the CAF Champions League final first leg—further solidifies his reputation as one of Africa’s top referees.
Understanding the Controversy That Followed the CAN Final
The 2025 CAN final in Rabat, Morocco remains a talking point due to Ndala’s pivotal decisions. A Senegalese goal was ruled out for an alleged foul before the play developed, while a late VAR-reviewed penalty was awarded to Morocco after a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Senegal’s temporary walk-off in protest led to a match delay, and the CAF later awarded Morocco a 3-0 technical victory for the infringement.
Despite the backlash, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) regulations ensure that on-field decisions are final, leaving little room for post-match appeals. This principle underscores the challenges referees face in balancing fairness with the pressure of high-profile games.
What’s Next for the CAF Champions League Final?
The first leg in Pretoria sets the stage for a dramatic showdown. The return leg is set for May 24 in Rabat, where the outcome of the tie will be decided. Ndala’s appointment reflects the CAF’s confidence in his ability to navigate high-pressure scenarios—a test he will face once again in this elite club competition.
