Former Cameroonian goalkeeper Joseph-Antoine Bell has identified the referee as the “man of the match” in the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco.
Speaking to France 24, Bell praised the official’s impartiality amid a game overshadowed by protests and debate.
Bell argued that the referee maintained exemplary neutrality, free from the emotions or preconceived notions that influenced others during the high-stakes encounter.
“The man of the match was the referee. He was the only one who didn’t come with emotions, preconceived ideas, or fixed attitudes. It wasn’t a disallowed goal; the referee had blown his whistle well before. To those who ask why he didn’t consult the video replay, I would remind them that VAR is only an aid to the referee,” Bell said.
The Cameroonian legend’s comments come in the wake of widespread criticism over a disallowed goal that triggered controversy among fans and commentators alike.
Bell sought to clarify the technical details behind the decision, insisting that the referee acted correctly within the rules.
Reflecting on the broader atmosphere, Bell condemned the external pressures that influenced players and observers before and during the match.
“We saw a good match, but unfortunately, the atmosphere was polluted by all those people who were conditioned to act as they did, and today they regret it,” he said.
Bell also lamented the preconditioned reactions of players and officials, suggesting that the debate surrounding the match detracted from the quality of football on display.
He called for greater respect for the game and those tasked with officiating it, stressing that referees operate under intense scrutiny and responsibility.
Ultimately, Bell’s perspective reframes the narrative of the Senegal-Morocco final, shifting focus from the controversy on the pitch to the performance of those enforcing the rules.
