Senegalese referee Issa Sy has been appointed to oversee the high-profile clash between Bayern Munich and Auckland City in the second fixture of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, marking a significant moment for African refereeing on the global stage.
The tournament, taking place in the United States, will open with Egyptian giants Al Ahly facing MLS side Inter Miami.
But it is the following match, involving one of Europe’s elite clubs, that will see a full African officiating crew take centre stage.
Sy, one of Africa’s most respected referees, will lead an all-African quartet for the Group C encounter.
He will be joined by compatriots Djibril Camara and Nouha Bangoura as assistant referees, while Libya’s Ibrahim Mutaz has been appointed as the fourth official.
Their selection underlines the growing recognition of African officials in global football.
This match marks a major opportunity for Sy and his team to demonstrate their credentials at one of the world’s most prestigious club tournaments.
Their assignment to such a key early fixture reflects FIFA’s confidence in their capabilities and experience.
The game itself features German powerhouse Bayern Munich, one of the tournament favourites, against Oceania champions Auckland City.
Both sides are placed in Group C, alongside South American giants Boca Juniors and Portuguese outfit Benfica.
This fixture, therefore, sets the tone for a tightly contested group with a blend of traditional European strength and emerging international representation.
The presence of Al Ahly in the tournament opener also highlights the strong African presence at this year’s competition.
The Cairo-based club brings with it a wealth of talent from the continent and will look to make an early impact when they meet Inter Miami.
For Issa Sy, taking charge of a Bayern Munich match represents a significant milestone in a refereeing career that has steadily gained prominence over recent years.
His leadership in this game offers a visible testament to Africa’s growing influence not only on the pitch but in all aspects of the sport.
As the Club World Cup unfolds, all eyes will be on how these African representatives — both players and officials — rise to the occasion on football’s grandest stage.
