Five African referees appointed to take global stage at 2025 FIFA Club World Cup
The world is getting ready to welcome the inaugural edition of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which will be held from June 14 to July 13 in the United States. Africa is proudly celebrating the selection of five outstanding referees who will showcase their skills on this global stage.
These match officials, hailing from Mauritania to the Democratic Republic of Congo, possess extensive experience and embody a spirit of excellence and professionalism that has earned them recognition as some of the best in the world.
The selected African referees are: – Dahane Beida – Mauritania – Mustapha Ghorbal – Algeria – Ibrahim Mutaz – Libya – Jean Jacques Ndala – Democratic Republic of Congo – Issa Sy – Senegal.
These five officials are part of a historic pool of 117 match officials selected from 41 FIFA member associations, which includes 35 referees, 58 assistant referees, and 24 video match officials.
Their selection reflects the growing prominence of the continent in international football officiating and its significant role in shaping the modern game.
Among them, Ghorbal is known as one of Africa’s most experienced referees, having officiated in major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and various CAF events. Ndala and Sy have also established strong track records from years of commendable performances in top-tier games both in Africa and internationally.
This tournament will not only showcase exceptional club football but also feature advancements in refereeing technology. For the first time, referees will wear body cameras, providing fans with an unprecedented view of in-game decisions via DAZN, the broadcast partner.
This innovation highlights FIFA’s commitment to transparency, increased fan engagement, and serves as a valuable tool for referee coaching and performance analysis.
FIFA Referees Committee Chairman Pierluigi Collina described the appointment of these officials as a “privilege,” emphasizing that being part of the first edition of this reformed tournament marks a significant milestone in any referee’s career.
African referees, who have been consistently recognized for their talent and authority, now have the opportunity to shine even brighter under the global spotlight.
As clubs from around the world compete for supremacy in America this summer, Africa can take pride in its referees, who will exemplify fair play and the spirit of the beautiful game.
They are not only officiating matches; they are inspiring a new generation of referees across the continent.
Below is the full list:
