By our reporter 13.1.2026
The blockbuster Africa Cup of Nations semi-final between hosts Morocco and Nigeria will be handled by Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea.
Laryea has been one of the most outstanding referees in the tournament, which has had its controversial moments with officiating. The 39-year-old official is known to have great composure and good decision-making in high-pressure situations. He is expected to bring his experience to officiate fairly in the high wire game.
He was at the VAR room during the quarter-final match between Morocco and Cameroon. He also took charge of group-stage game between Algeria and Burkina Faso.
Wednesday’s semi-final at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat is expected to be fiercely contested. Morocco will look to capitalise on home advantage and the energy of their supporters as they chase a historic AFCON title, while Nigeria, three-time champions, will aim to assert their pedigree and reach yet another final.
Meanwhile Nigeria Football Federation president Ibrahim Gusau has dismissed fears by Nigerian fans the host team would be favoured by the match officials, following precedents in previous games.
“I do not have the same fears of the match officials being biased as some people have. I believe that the grass is always green and that the playing pitch is level. I do not see a situation in which the match officials will be working against any team’s interest,” Gusau stated.
“Last summer, we were here in Morocco, for the Women Africa Cup of Nations, and we played the host nation in the Final, even coming from two goals behind to achieve victory. There is nothing to fear. This is the highest level of football on the African continent, and the officials know that CAF as well as the whole world is watching and will not do anything untoward.”