AFCON 2025: CAF Appoints Somalia Official For Nigeria, Algeria Clash

AFCON 2025: CAF Appoints Somalia Official For Nigeria, Algeria Clash

 Sampson Adedeji

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Somali referee Omar Artan as the centre official for the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarter-final encounter between Nigeria and Algeria, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face the Desert Foxes of Algeria in what is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the last-eight stage of the tournament.

Algeria booked their place in the quarter-finals following a narrow 1-0 victory over DR Congo, securing progression after a tightly contested encounter. Nigeria, on the other hand, cruised into the quarter-finals with a dominant 4-0 win against Mozambique in the round of 16.

CAF’s decision to hand the match to Omar Artan reflects confidence in the Somali official, who is widely regarded as one of the most respected referees on the African continent. 

Artan has officiated several high-profile matches in CAF competitions and is known for his composure and consistency.

With both Nigeria and Algeria boasting rich AFCON histories and strong squads, attention will be firmly on the officiating as the two heavyweights battle for a place in the semi-finals of AFCON 2025.