AS FAR challenges CAF over referee choice for champions league final

Morocco’s football powerhouse, AS FAR, has strongly opposed the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to appoint Jean-Jacques Ndala as the referee for the upcoming Champions League final first leg against Mamelodi Sundowns.

With the highly anticipated match just two weeks away—scheduled for May 17 in Pretoria, South Africa—the controversy surrounding the match official has intensified. The club’s objections stem from Ndala’s controversial officiating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Morocco and Senegal, which was marred by contentious decisions.

AS FAR demands immediate replacement of referee

AS FAR, making its first final appearance in 41 years, has formally requested CAF to reconsider Ndala’s appointment. The club’s concerns revolve around critical refereeing errors during the chaotic AFCON final, including:

• The failure to halt play after Senegalese players walked off the field on January 18 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat
• Inconsistent application of disciplinary measures, notably the omission of yellow cards for several players upon their return to the pitch

These incidents have raised serious doubts about Ndala’s suitability to oversee such a high-stakes match. Adding to the controversy, reports indicate that Ndala was previously excluded by FIFA from officiating at the 2026 World Cup due to his performance in the AFCON final, further fueling AS FAR’s stance.

The Moroccan club is now urging CAF to replace Ndala immediately to ensure a fair and transparent competition.