Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea has admitted to feeling nervous earlier than officiating the high-profile 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final between hosts Morocco and Nigeria, however firmly dismissed claims that his selections favoured the match hosts.
Laryea spoke to journalists in Accra following his return from the competitors, addressing the extraordinary scrutiny that adopted the tightly contested encounter performed in entrance of a packed Moroccan crowd.
The semi-final ended goalless after 120 minutes of regulation and additional time, earlier than Morocco edged Nigeria 4–2 in a penalty shoot-out to guide a spot within the remaining. The result sparked debate amongst followers, with some questioning the officiating in such a decisive fixture.
Responding to the criticism, Laryea acknowledged the strain that comes with dealing with a match of that magnitude however insisted his efficiency was truthful {and professional}.
“I’ve been to 3 AFCON tournaments, however that is the primary time I’ve been in a semi-final,” he stated, describing the appointment as a defining second in his refereeing profession. “When coaches select you for that recreation, they know your abilities and what you are able to do.”
The skilled official admitted that nerves had been inevitable given the stakes concerned. “After all, you are feeling slightly anxious due to the extent of the match,” Laryea added, stressing that nervousness didn’t have an effect on his judgment on the sector.
Laryea’s feedback come amid ongoing conversations about officiating requirements at main African tournaments, with referees usually below intense strain in matches involving host nations. Regardless of the controversy, the Ghanaian official maintained that he dealt with the fixture to the perfect of his capability, guided by expertise and adherence to the legal guidelines of the sport.
The semi-final stays one of the vital intently contested matches of AFCON 2025, with Laryea’s efficiency now firmly a part of the match’s narrative
