Jean-Jacques Ndala officiated the final of the 2025 AFCON
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially cleared Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala of any wrongdoing following the controversy that marred the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 final between hosts Morocco and Senegal.
Ndala, who had been appointed to officiate the highly charged encounter, found himself at the centre of drama in the closing stages of the match. Senegal had a late goal disallowed, a decision that sparked furious protests.
Moments later, after a VAR review, Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty with minutes left on the clock, a call that further inflamed tensions.
The situation escalated dramatically when Senegal briefly staged a walkout in protest, then returned to complete the match. Despite the chaos, the Teranga Lions regrouped and went on to secure victory in a final that had threatened to descend into complete disorder.
Full Breakdown: CAF slaps Morocco with six sanctions after AFCON final chaos
In the aftermath, CAF launched a thorough review into the officiating decisions. On Thursday, January 29, 2026, the governing body delivered its verdict, clearing Ndala of all allegations and reaffirming “the high level of professionalism and integrity” displayed by the referee.
CAF also announced sanctions and fines for players from both Morocco and Senegal, including Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw, for their roles in the post-decision unrest.
With his name now cleared, Ndala is expected to be part of the officials for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
FKA/BAI
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