CAF reportedly sacks referees director after Morocco protests officiating in WAFCON final loss to Nigeria.
The move follows claims of unfair calls and growing concerns over refereeing standards in Africa.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reportedly removed its Director of Refereeing, Désiré Noumandiez Doué, following Morocco’s formal protest over controversial officiating during the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
This reported dismissal is seen as the first disciplinary action by CAF amid escalating criticism of refereeing standards, especially after the tournament’s final, where Nigeria edged Morocco 3–2 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat last Saturday.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) submitted an official complaint earlier this week, citing “critical errors” by the officiating crew. The match was handled by Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa, assisted by officials from Rwanda, Senegal, and a VAR team led by Rwanda’s Salima Mukansanga.
Among the grievances raised, Morocco argued that they were denied a legitimate penalty while Nigeria was awarded a “highly questionable” spot-kick. The FRMF also submitted video evidence highlighting other incidents they claim significantly impacted the outcome of the game.
Reacting to the controversial decisions, Morocco’s head coach Jorge Vilda told ESPN: “We can’t understand the decision made by the referee. She gave a penalty, but then the images we saw weren’t the same as those presented to the referee. It had a psychological impact that shocked us. It was a massive blow.”
The incident has reignited long-standing concerns about CAF’s refereeing integrity and regional impartiality. Some North African football associations have previously accused CAF of favoring certain regions under the leadership of President Patrice Motsepe.
Beyond the refereeing controversy, CAF has also faced criticism over a recent promotional video which featured a divided map of Morocco, excluding the southern provinces, a move that triggered diplomatic backlash.
According to sources close to CAF, a full review of the refereeing department is underway, with further reforms expected as pressure mounts from member associations seeking transparency and fair play.
