AFCON 2025: Tension In CAF Referees Committee As Some Officials Face Possible Quarter-Final Axe

AFCON 2025: Tension In CAF Referees Committee As Some Officials Face Possible Quarter-Final Axe

 Sampson Adedeji

Tension has reportedly engulfed the Referees Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), with some referees initially appointed for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarter-final matches now facing possible removal, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

According to sources close to the committee, internal disagreements have delayed the final confirmation of match officials for the quarter-final fixtures, raising concerns just days before the decisive stage of the tournament.

The unrest is understood to stem from growing dissatisfaction among senior CAF officials over the standard of officiating witnessed in recent matches. 

Several controversial decisions during the group stage and round of 16 have drawn criticism from teams, fans, and analysts, prompting intense internal reviews.

It was further gathered that at least one high-profile referee could be sidelined for disciplinary reasons after allegedly wearing boots from a brand not affiliated with CAF’s official sponsorship partners, an action said to contravene competition regulations.

CAF is expected to take decisive action in the coming hours as it seeks to restore confidence in officiating and ensure a smooth conclusion to the tournament. 

The football body has yet to issue an official statement on the situation.