2021 AFCON Qualifiers: Another change of referees at CAF

Following the precedent set in the Benin–Lesotho fixture, CAF has announced a change of referees for the Senegal–Guinea-Bissau match scheduled for March 28 in the qualifiers for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. The continental governing body reported that the initially appointed Tunisian officials would be unavailable for the encounter, necessitating the appointment of a new officiating team.

The match will now be overseen by a Gabonese crew, led by referee Eric Otogo, who will be assisted by his compatriots Boris Ditsoga, Felix Abaa Eyaga, and Pierre Atcho. This change ensures that the game is conducted under the supervision of experienced officials while maintaining CAF’s standards for refereeing in important qualifiers. The reassignment comes after Sadok Selmi, Mohamed Bakir, Jridi Faouzi, and Mouhamed Baouli were originally scheduled to manage the fixture, but their unavailability prompted the switch.

In addition to the refereeing team, CAF has confirmed that Mahamadou Illou of Niger and Andy Quamie of Liberia will continue in their respective roles as Commissioner and Security Officer for the match. Their presence ensures that the administrative and security aspects of the game are managed effectively, complementing the oversight provided by the Gabonese officials.

The Senegal–Guinea-Bissau fixture is crucial in the context of the AFCON 2021 qualifying campaign, with both teams aiming to secure points and strengthen their positions in the group standings. Ensuring that competent and impartial referees are appointed is essential for the smooth conduct of the match, and CAF’s decision to make the change aligns with its ongoing efforts to maintain fairness and integrity in continental competitions.

The adjustment of officials also reflects CAF’s flexibility in responding to unforeseen circumstances, such as scheduling conflicts or unavailability of referees. By assigning a qualified Gabonese team, the organization aims to uphold the quality of officiating while minimizing disruptions to the tournament schedule. This proactive approach helps maintain the credibility and competitive balance of AFCON qualifiers across the continent.

As the teams prepare for the match on March 28, attention will now turn to the performance of the new officiating team alongside the on-field efforts of Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. The presence of experienced referees, coupled with the oversight of the Commissioner and Security Officer, provides confidence that the fixture will be conducted professionally and fairly, ensuring that the focus remains on the players and the competition.

CAF’s timely intervention in changing the refereeing lineup demonstrates its commitment to the smooth running of AFCON qualifiers and the broader development of African football. With the new officials in place, both Senegal and Guinea-Bissau can concentrate on their tactical preparations, knowing that the match will be officiated by a competent and neutral team.