Former Cameroon goalkeeper Joseph Antoine Bell has defended the officiating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco, amid widespread criticism on social media.
Bell, a legendary figure in African football and consultant for RFI, praised referee Jean-Jacques Ndala Ngambo for his composure and focus during the decisive match.
The final, which saw Senegal edge past Morocco, sparked heated debate online over several of the referee’s decisions, including a key penalty that influenced the outcome.
According to Bell, Ndala Ngambo “fulfilled his role perfectly” and maintained a calm demeanor despite the high stakes of the match.
“If anyone deserves praise, it’s the referee because he remained calm and composed,” Bell said.
He argued that some of the criticism directed at the referee might be motivated by broader disputes or even conspiratorial thinking against Morocco.
The veteran goalkeeper’s comments highlight the intense scrutiny officials face in high-profile tournaments, where decisions can be polarising and provoke strong reactions from fans and media alike.
Bell emphasized that the referee’s primary responsibility is to manage the game fairly and consistently, a role he believes Ndala Ngambo executed successfully.
Social media platforms were flooded with negative reactions following the final, with many questioning the referee’s calls.
Bell, however, suggested that such criticism often overlooks the difficulty of managing a match of this magnitude and the pressures that come with officiating at the continental level.
In defending Ndala Ngambo, Bell added context to the debate surrounding the final, suggesting that the referee’s performance should be assessed based on professionalism rather than fan reaction.
His intervention may influence how the officiating is perceived in the aftermath of Morocco’s narrow defeat and the surrounding controversy.
