As the Super Eagles of Nigeria prepare to face host nation Morocco in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semifinal today, prominent Nigerian journalist, Gbolahan Adetayo has declared that only the grace of God can secure Nigeria’s passage into the final.
In a widely shared commentary ahead of the mouth-watering clash at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Adetayo urged the Super Eagles to be extra cautious throughout the match, citing concerns that extend beyond the field.
Morocco’s status as hosts naturally confers home support and atmosphere, a factor Adetayo notes could influence key moments of the game. The intense backing from local fans and the weight of hosting responsibilities have historically added pressure on match officials to avoid decisions that could be perceived as controversial.
However, CAF insists on the neutrality and high standards of officiating at the tournament.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea as the centre official for tonight’s semi-final, with South African Zakhele Siwela and Lesotho’s Souru Phatsoane as assistant referees. In addition, South Africa’s Tom Abongile will serve in the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) booth.
While Laryea is respected across the continent for his experience in CAF competitions and FIFA-sanctioned matches, Adetayo’s critique reflects lingering concerns among some Nigerian fans about perceived biases in officiating when African teams from certain regions meet, especially when a neutral referee hails from a neighboring rival nation.
A vocal online rivalry between Nigerian and Ghanaian football supporters further fuels debate around this appointment. Though the Super Eagles and Ghana’s Black Stars have mutual respect on the pitch, banter and social media exchanges between the nations’ fans often escalate during major tournaments. Critics argue that this fan rivalry could picture a Ghanaian official in unfair light, even if CAF selected him on merit.
Similarly, the involvement of South African officials, including in VAR duties, has been pointed out by some supporters as another potential flashpoint, partly due to past controversies involving South Africans and Nigerians.
Adetayo stressed that Super Eagles players must avoid unnecessary yellow and red cards that could harm Nigeria’s chances, particularly amid feelings that an unjust dismissal might sway momentum in Morocco’s favor. Discipline will be essential, he argues, to keep Nigeria’s title ambitions very much alive.
The Super Eagles qualify for this semifinal after a convincing 2–0 win over Algeria in the quarter-finals, while Morocco progressed with a 2–0 victory over Cameroon on home soil.
Kick-off is scheduled for tonight, with millions of fans across Africa and beyond expected to tune in for what may be one of the most intense and closely watched matches of AFCON 2025.
