AFCON: Two South African Officials Named for Morocco Tournament

Two South African match officials have been confirmed for the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, joining an elite list for the continent’s biggest football event.

Referee Abongile Tom and veteran assistant referee Zakhele Siwela have been included in the final panel for the tournament, which kicks off on 21 December.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a list comprising 28 referees, 31 assistant referees, and 14 Video Match Officials (VMOs) who will oversee matches during the competition.

Officials from Mzansi at AFCON

Tom, aged 33, returns for his second consecutive AFCON after officiating three matches at the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast, including a Round of 16 clash.

He also recently handled a high-profile World Cup playoff between Gabon and Nigeria in Rabat, underlining his growing reputation on the international stage.

Siwela, one of Africa’s most experienced assistant referees, makes a comeback after missing the last AFCON. The 43-year-old previously ran the line in the 2021 AFCON final in Cameroon, which was refereed by fellow South African Victor Gomes.

Chavani fails to make the list

Siwela has now featured in six AFCON tournaments, placing him just one shy of the record held by Mali’s Komlan Coulibaly, who worked at eight editions. His résumé also includes appearances at the last two FIFA World Cups, cementing his status among the continent’s top officials.

Meanwhile, Alfred Chavani, who was on the initial shortlist, did not make the final cut for Morocco 2025.

The inclusion of Tom and Siwela highlights South Africa’s continued presence among Africa’s elite referees, ensuring representation at the highest level when the tournament begins later this month.