FIFA has appointed a Nigerien officiating team to oversee the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier between Liberia and Sao Tome and Principe.
The match, which holds significant importance for Liberia’s campaign in Group H, is set to take place on Monday at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Complex in Paynesville.
The match will be officiated by Mohamed Ali Moussa, a highly regarded referee known for his disciplined approach to the game.
Assisting him on the pitch will be fellow Nigeriens Abdoul Aziz Yacouba and Abdou Garba Soufia as assistant referees, while Brahamou Ali Sadou will serve as the fourth official.
Liberia eyes vital points in qualification race
Liberia enters this crucial fixture with aspirations of strengthening their position in the group standings.
With seven points accumulated so far, they sit third in Group H, trailing leaders Tunisia, who have 13 points, and second-placed Namibia, who have 11.
A win would keep them in contention for a historic World Cup qualification spot.
Sao Tome and Principe, meanwhile, have endured a difficult campaign.
Sitting at the bottom of the group with zero points, they have suffered five consecutive defeats.
With no chance of qualification, they will be playing for pride as they seek to upset Liberia’s ambitions.
Liberia will be eager to capitalize on home advantage, knowing that any slip-up could significantly dent their hopes of progressing to the next stage.
Head coach Thomas Kojo will be counting on his players to deliver a strong performance and secure a much-needed victory.
Kickoff details and expectations
The match is scheduled to kick off at 16:00 GMT at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Complex.
With a Nigerien officiating team at the helm, all eyes will be on the quality of officiating in what is expected to be a decisive fixture in the qualification race.
Liberian fans will be hopeful that their team can rise to the occasion, while Sao Tome and Principe will look to defy expectations and salvage some pride from their campaign.
The stakes are high, and the battle for crucial points promises an intense encounter.
