South Africa trio selected for CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup referee camp

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has selected three South African match officials for a 76-member training camp in Egypt ahead of the Champions League and Confederation Cup group stages.

The preparation course for referees, assistant referees and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officials will be held in Cairo from 18 to 23 November.

Abongile Tom has been included in the CAF Elite A list. The South African is one of the country’s most recognised referees and was involved at the FIFA 2026 World Cup.

Tom has previously featured among the officials considered for this level, but Jelly Chavani has reached the group-stage selection for the first time.

Chavani’s inclusion marks a significant step in his progress, with the 76 officials chosen to prepare for the next phase of CAF’s two major club competitions.

Makalima selected for VAR training

Akhona Makalima completes the South African representation at the camp and has been selected for specialised VAR training.

She is one of 15 match officials chosen for the VAR course. The technology will be used in the group stage of both competitions for the first time this season.

The opening round of group-stage matches is scheduled for the weekend of 27 to 29 November, while the final round is due to take place at the end of January 2027.

South Africa will have Orlando Pirates competing in the Champions League, with Durban City representing the country in the Confederation Cup.