CAF Super Cup: Sudanese official Mahmoud Ismail appointed to oversee final

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that Sudanese referee Mahmoud Ismail will take charge of the CAF Super Cup clash between Renaissance de Berkane and Pyramids FC.

The highly anticipated match will be staged at Cairo’s 18th of October Stadium, bringing together the reigning champions of the Confederation Cup and the CAF Champions League runners-up.

CAF announced the full officiating team ahead of the fixture.

Ismail, one of the continent’s most experienced referees, will be assisted on the touchlines by compatriot Mohamed Abdallah and Kenyan official Gilbert Cheruiyot.

Mauritania’s Abed Azize Bouh has been designated as the fourth official for the encounter.

Video technology will also play a central role in ensuring decisions are accurate.

Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea will oversee the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, supported by South Africa’s Tom Abongile and Kenya’s Stephen Onyango.

This blend of officials from across the continent reflects CAF’s emphasis on both neutrality and high refereeing standards in one of its showcase events.

The appointment of Mahmoud Ismail underlines CAF’s confidence in his ability to manage a high-stakes contest fairly and effectively, a CAF official said following the announcement.

Ismail, who has officiated several major international fixtures, is known for his composed handling of tense encounters and his strict adherence to the laws of the game.

The CAF Super Cup traditionally pits the previous season’s African club competition winners against each other.

Renaissance de Berkane, who triumphed in the Confederation Cup, will be aiming to add another continental trophy to their growing collection, while Pyramids FC, representing Egypt, will be looking to seize home advantage in Cairo.

Kick-off at the 18th of October Stadium is expected to draw significant attention from fans across Africa, with broadcasters and CAF’s digital platforms providing coverage of the showdown.

For the two clubs involved, the match represents not only a chance at silverware but also a statement of intent ahead of the new African club season.

With Ismail at the helm and an experienced VAR team in support, CAF is aiming for a contest where the quality of officiating matches the stakes on the pitch — a fitting stage for one of African football’s premier club fixtures.