African football authorities have named Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea to officiate Nigeria’s high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against hosts Morocco, a matchup set for Wednesday in the Moroccan capital where both sides vie for a place in the final of the 2025 edition.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled the officiating crew on Tuesday via social media, assigning Laryea the center role amid expectations of a tense encounter at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Laryea will be assisted by South African Zakhele Thusi Granville Siwela as first assistant referee and Souru Phatsoane as second, with virtual assistant referees Abongile Tom, Haythem Guirat, and Stephen Onyango Yiembe rounding out the team.
No specific statements from CAF officials accompanied the announcement, but the appointments come as Nigeria, unbeaten in the tournament, seeks a fourth AFCON crown, while Morocco aims for only their second final appearance since 2004.
The winner will advance to Sunday’s final against either Egypt or Senegal, capping a tournament marked by surprises and home advantage for the Atlas Lions.
