Caf assigns jean-jacques ndala to prestigious champions league final
CAF assigns jean-jacques ndala to prestigious champions league final
After officiating the thrilling CAN 2025 final, Jean-Jacques Ndala has been entrusted with another high-profile assignment: refereeing the first leg of the CAF Champions League final between Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR Rabat at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
This appointment has sparked intense debate across African football circles. Critics question his omission from the list of referees selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting what they perceive as an inconsistency in selection criteria.
Key details of the historic match
- Teams: Mamelodi Sundowns vs. AS FAR Rabat
- Competition: CAF Champions League final (first leg)
- Venue: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria
- Date & Time: May 17, 2026, at 14:00 GMT
The referee’s involvement in both the CAN 2025 and this Champions League final underscores his growing reputation as one of Africa’s most trusted officials. However, the decision has not been without controversy, with many questioning why he was not included in the World Cup referee pool.
What’s next for Ndala?
As preparations for the 2026 World Cup intensify, Jean-Jacques Ndala continues to build an impressive resume. His latest assignment further cements his status as a top-tier referee in African football, though questions about his exclusion from the global tournament remain unanswered.
