Cape Verde will host Egypt in a crucial Group C clash on November 15 as part of the fifth round of qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The match, pivotal for Cape Verde’s qualification hopes, will be overseen by seasoned Beninese referee Djindo Louis Houngnandandé.
Cape Verde, currently third in Group C, faces a daunting challenge against group leaders Egypt.
A win would bring the Blue Sharks closer to securing their place in the tournament and ease the pressure heading into the final round of qualifiers.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF), under FIFA’s guidance, entrusted Houngnandandé with officiating this high-stakes encounter.
The 38-year-old referee has earned a reputation for his expertise and composure in handling international fixtures.
His selection underscores his credibility, having previously been included in the officiating team for the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire.
The Cape Verde vs. Egypt match will kick off at 4 p.m. GMT and is expected to be a tightly contested affair.
With Cape Verde needing a victory and Egypt aiming to solidify their dominance in the group, the outcome could significantly influence the final standings.
For Houngnandandé, this assignment adds to a growing list of prestigious appointments in his refereeing career
. Known for his meticulous approach and ability to manage intense matches, he is well-equipped to handle the pressure that comes with such a critical encounter.
Cape Verde’s Blue Sharks will rely on their home advantage to upset the Pharaohs, whose rich history and form make them formidable opponents.
As the race for qualification intensifies, the focus will not only be on the players but also on the man in the middle, whose decisions could shape the game’s narrative.
This Group C fixture is one of several key matches in the penultimate round of AFCON qualifiers, as teams across the continent vie for a place in Morocco for the 2025 tournament.
For both Cape Verde and Egypt, the stakes are high, and the presence of an experienced referee like Djindo Louis Houngnandandé ensures the game will be in capable hands.