Experienced Ghanaian match official Daniel Nii Laryea has been handed the responsibility of overseeing the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 semi-final between Nigeria and tournament hosts Morocco, the Confederation of African Football has announced.
The fixture, scheduled for Wednesday night at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, represents one of the most anticipated encounters of the continental championship, with both nations harbouring strong ambitions of lifting the trophy.
Laryea’s selection for such a high-stakes match reflects the confidence CAF has placed in his abilities and his proven track record at the elite level of African football. The 39-year-old referee has emerged as one of the standout officials at the ongoing tournament, consistently delivering assured performances in matches demanding both technical precision and emotional intelligence.
His involvement in the current edition of AFCON has been significant. Most recently, Laryea served as Video Assistant Referee during Morocco’s dramatic quarter-final victory over Cameroon, a tightly contested encounter that required meticulous scrutiny and timely intervention from the match officials. His composure and accurate judgment in that capacity drew commendation from technical observers.
Earlier in the tournament, Laryea was entrusted with centre referee duties for the Group A clash between Algeria and Burkina Faso. In that fixture, he demonstrated his capacity to maintain control and enforce discipline while allowing the game to flow naturally, qualities that have become hallmarks of his officiating style.
Recognized across the continent as one of Africa’s leading referees, Laryea brings considerable experience to Wednesday’s assignment. His curriculum vitae includes multiple appearances at previous editions of the Africa Cup of Nations, as well as regular appointments in CAF’s premier club competitions, the Champions League and the Confederation Cup. Over the years, he has built a reputation for managing high-tension fixtures with authority and fairness, earning respect from players, coaches, and football administrators alike.
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The semi-final encounter promises to be a fiercely competitive affair. Morocco, buoyed by passionate home support and riding a wave of momentum, will seek to exploit their advantage as hosts while pursuing what would be a historic AFCON triumph. The Atlas Lions have impressed throughout the tournament with their tactical discipline and attacking prowess.
Standing in their way are the Super Eagles of Nigeria, three-time African champions with a rich footballing heritage and a determination to add to their continental honours. Nigeria’s pedigree in major tournaments is well established, and the team will be eager to leverage their experience and quality to secure a place in Sunday’s final.
Given the magnitude of the occasion and the intensity expected on the pitch, the role of the match officials becomes particularly critical. Decisions made under pressure, whether involving potential penalties, red card offences, or contentious goal-line incidents, could ultimately determine which nation progresses to the championship match.
