The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has made a significant decision in the midst of escalating tensions with the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), appointing Algerian referee Mustapha Ghorbal to officiate the first leg of the CAF Champions League final between Esperance of Tunis and Al-Ahly of Cairo.
Ghorbal, a highly regarded figure in African football, has been selected by CAF’s Arbitration Commission to oversee the prestigious match, accompanied by his compatriots Mokrane Gourari and Akram Zerhrouni as assistant referees, and Moataz Al-Shalmani from Libya as the fourth official.
Additionally, Mauritanian referee Dahan Beda will manage the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, assisted by Salima Mixonga from Rwanda and Jerson de Santos from Angola.
This move comes amidst a strained relationship between CAF and the Algerian Football Federation, particularly in light of ongoing disputes surrounding the USM Algiers – RS Berkane affair.
Some observers speculate that CAF’s decision to appoint an Algerian referee for the Champions League final is an attempt to alleviate tensions with Algeria, particularly following the scheduling of the CAF Cup final between Zamalek SC and RS Berkane, a decision that has yet to be resolved by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne.
However, it’s important to note that Ghorbal’s appointment is not merely a symbolic gesture. Widely regarded as one of the finest referees on the continent, Ghorbal’s selection underscores his merit and expertise in officiating high-profile matches.
Meanwhile, within Algeria itself, there appears to be a difference in opinion regarding the implementation of VAR technology in domestic football.
While the Algerian Football Federation’s vice-president, Amine Mesloug, has announced plans to introduce VAR at the beginning of the next season, Mehdi Abid Charef, head of the Federal Arbitration Commission, has expressed a more cautious approach, emphasizing the need for comprehensive preparation and training before its implementation.
As tensions persist and preparations for the Champions League final unfold, CAF’s decision to appoint Ghorbal reflects the organization’s commitment to maintaining professionalism and impartiality in African football officiating, while also navigating complex diplomatic relations within the continent’s footballing community.
