AFCON 2025: Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala to handle opening game between Morocco and Comoros

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has chosen top DR Congo referee Jean-Jacques Ndala to officiate the opening match between host, Morocco and Comoros at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

The Atlas Lions are set to kick off their campaign on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.

With his wealth of experience, the continental football governing body (CAF) has entrusted him to handle the much-anticipated opener on Sunday and is expected to demonstrate his qualities throughout the match.

Ndala, one of the most respected referees on the African continent has been in the books of FIFA since 2013. He has officiated in three AFCON tournaments including 2019, 2022 and 2024 respectively.

Known for his professionalism, mastery of the rules and authority on the field, Ndala has also officiated in several games in the CAF Champions League and Confederations Cup.

Meanwhile, Dahane Beida from Mauritania has been appointed to take charge of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) duties.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has been scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025 through to January 18, 2026, with 24 countries set to battle it out for the covetous trophy.