Kurt Okraku backs AFCON 2025 referees after controversial final scenes

CAF Second Vice President Kurt Okraku has defended referees at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following widespread criticism over officiating decisions during the tournament, particularly in the final between Senegal and hosts Morocco.

Okraku admitted that some incidents were not ideal but insisted they should not overshadow what he described as a successful and high-quality competition.

The controversy peaked in the final when Senegal briefly refused to continue play after Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty with the match still goalless. Referee Jean Jacques Ndala pointed to the spot in the 98th minute after consulting the pitchside monitor at the video assistant referee's advice, reviewing El Hadji Malick Diouf’s challenge on Brahim Diaz.

Senegal’s frustration had already grown earlier after a goal by Ismaila Sarr was disallowed for a foul by Abdoulaye Seck on Achraf Hakimi in the build-up. The penalty decision further inflamed tensions, prompting Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw to request that his players leave the pitch briefly, while some supporters attempted to invade the field.

“Yes, the scenes on that day were not what you expect, but for me, I take it as part of the excitement of the game,” Okraku said. “It shows how much Senegal wanted to win, their passion and energy, but that will never take away the quality of the event.”

He stressed that refereeing mistakes are part of football globally.

“Referees are human beings. They will make mistakes today and get things right tomorrow. That happens everywhere,” he said.

Diaz missed the penalty as Senegal went on to beat Morocco to win the title, though Thiaw is now facing possible sanctions following a CAF disciplinary hearing.