CAF Second Vice President Kurt Okraku has come to the defence of referees at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following criticism over officiating, particularly during the dramatic final between Senegal and hosts Morocco.
Okraku acknowledged that some decisions were far from perfect but argued that these should not overshadow what he described as a successful and high-quality tournament.
The controversy peaked in the final when Senegal briefly refused to continue play after Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty while the match was still goalless. The penalty, given in the 98th minute after a pitchside review by referee Jean Jacques Ndala and the video assistant referee (VAR), followed El Hadji Malick Diouf’s challenge on Brahim Diaz.
Tensions had already been rising earlier in the match, after Senegal had a goal by Ismaila Sarr disallowed due to a foul by Abdoulaye Seck in the build-up. The late penalty decision sparked a temporary pitch protest, with some supporters attempting 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 from the quality of the event.”
He further stressed that refereeing mistakes are part of football worldwide:
“Referees are human beings. They will make mistakes today and get things right tomorrow. That happens everywhere.”
Senegal eventually triumphed, winning the title after Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, though head coach Pape Thiaw now faces possible sanctions following a CAF disciplinary hearing.
