AFCON 2025: CAF Picks Ghanaian Ref and South African Ex-Cop for VAR in Nigeria vs Morocco Semi

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has placed its trust in South Africa once again, appointing former police officer Abongile Tom to lead VAR operations for the Africa Cup of Nations semifinal between Nigeria and host nation Morocco in Rabat.

Tom, who swapped law enforcement for the whistle, has become one of the continent’s most respected officials in the era of technology-driven decision-making. His appointment underscores CAF’s commitment to precision and fairness at the business end of the tournament.

He will head a VAR team featuring Tunisia’s Haythem Guirat and Kenya’s Stephen Onyango Yiembe, while Ethiopia’s Lidya Tafesse Abebe serves as referee assessor. On the pitch, Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea will take charge, supported by South Africa’s Zakhele Siwela and Lesotho’s Souru Phatsoane as assistant referees, with Mozambique’s Arsenio Chadreque Maringule completing the team. Rwanda’s Samuel Uwikunda has been named fourth official.

The clash, set for 14 January at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium, promises fireworks as Nigeria chase another continental crown and Morocco look to make history on home soil. With so much at stake, CAF’s choice of officials sends a clear message: the spotlight belongs to the players, not the whistle.