Referee Jean-Jacques Ndala is once again in the spotlight. Following his prominent role in the CAN 2025 final, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed him to officiate the first leg of the CAF Champions League final. This high-profile match will see Mamelodi Sundowns clash with AS FAR Rabat in Pretoria.
This particular appointment has sparked considerable discussion. Many observers are highlighting the fact that the Congolese official was notably absent from the roster of African referees selected for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, fueling controversy around his current assignments.
Having presided over the CAN 2025 final, Ndala is now set to oversee the crucial CAF Champions League encounter featuring Mamelodi Sundowns against AS FAR.
The initial leg of the CAF Champions League final is scheduled for May 17, 2026. The match will take place at the Lotus Versfeld Stadium, with kick-off slated for 2 PM GMT.
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