AS FAR challenges CAF over Jean-Jacques Ndala’s appointment for Champions League final

The Moroccan club AS FAR has strongly objected to the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to appoint Jean-Jacques Ndala as the referee for the first leg of the CAF Champions League final against Mamelodi Sundowns.

With just two weeks remaining until the first leg of the CAF Champions League final in Pretoria, South Africa, on May 17, tensions are rising over the referee selection. The decision to appoint Jean-Jacques Ndala has sparked widespread frustration across Morocco.

AS FAR, making its first final appearance in 41 years, has formally raised concerns with CAF regarding the appointment of the Congolese official. Ndala’s controversial officiating during the chaotic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal has drawn sharp criticism. Reports, including from Micky Jnr, highlight the club’s dissatisfaction with his performance, particularly his failure to award yellow cards to at-fault players upon their return to the pitch after the Senegalese team re-entered the match.

AS FAR demands immediate replacement of referee Jean-Jacques Ndala

AS FAR’s objections also stem from Ndala’s exclusion from officiating the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to his handling of the 2025 AFCON final. The club has called for his immediate replacement, citing concerns over fairness and consistency in officiating standards.

The Moroccan side’s stance reflects broader unease in the country regarding Ndala’s appointment, given his contentious decisions in high-stakes matches. Fans and officials alike are questioning whether his involvement could compromise the integrity of the upcoming final.