CAF confirms selection of three Algerian officials for 2025 Women’s AFCON

Three Algerian referees have been appointed to officiate at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco from 5 to 26 July.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed the selections as part of a wider announcement naming match officials for the prestigious continental tournament.

Ghada Mahat has been chosen as a central referee, while Feriel Asma Ouahab will serve as an assistant referee. Lahlou Benbraham, an experienced figure in African officiating, has been appointed as a video assistant referee (VAR).

The selection of the trio represents a notable achievement for Algerian refereeing and is seen as a reflection of the country’s growing stature within African football.

Their appointments come after a rigorous evaluation process, which included a series of physical fitness assessments and technical examinations conducted under CAF supervision.

The decision is also viewed as an endorsement of Algeria’s investment in referee development, particularly in the women’s game. CAF has praised the Algerian officials for their consistent performances across recent international and continental fixtures, highlighting their discipline, understanding of the laws of the game, and ability to manage high-pressure environments.

Mahat, Ouahab, and Benbraham are no strangers to major competitions. Each has built a strong reputation within CAF circles, having featured in various regional and international tournaments over recent years.

Their inclusion on the official list for AFCON 2025 is not only a personal milestone but also a collective triumph for Algerian football’s officiating ranks.

CAF emphasised that all referees selected for the tournament were subjected to strict qualification standards. Candidates underwent a demanding set of trials, including endurance and agility tests, classroom sessions on rule interpretation, and simulated match scenarios designed to evaluate decision-making under pressure.

By meeting these benchmarks, the Algerian referees demonstrated not only physical readiness but also the mental sharpness required to officiate at the highest level of women’s football in Africa.

Their presence at the tournament adds further credibility to CAF’s efforts to ensure fairness and technical excellence in officiating.

It also comes at a time when the Confederation is placing increasing focus on the advancement of female officials across the continent, aiming to boost representation and standards simultaneously.

The 2025 edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is expected to be one of the most competitive in the tournament’s history, with growing investment in women’s football from many national federations.

For the Algerian officials, it will be an opportunity to contribute on one of the continent’s biggest stages and represent their nation with pride.

Their selection is being widely celebrated in Algeria, where football remains a deeply rooted part of the national culture.

For aspiring referees across the country, the appointments serve as a powerful example of where dedication and professionalism can lead.

As preparations for AFCON 2025 continue, the inclusion of Ghada Mahat, Feriel Asma Ouahab, and Lahlou Benbraham is a point of pride for Algerian sport and a testament to their commitment to excellence in officiating.