Controversy surrounds jean-jacques ndala’s role in caf champions league final

The African Football Confederation’s decision to appoint Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala for the first leg of the CAF Champions League final between Mamelodi Sundowns and Morocco’s AS FAR has sparked significant debate. Ndala, who also officiated the contentious 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, finds himself at the center of a fresh storm, with both clubs now questioning his suitability for the high-stakes match.

The highly anticipated showdown between Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR, scheduled for May 17 in Pretoria, is set to be a clash of titans. Yet, the spotlight has shifted from the teams to the man in the middle. Ndala’s recent track record, particularly his handling of the controversial AFCON final in January, has drawn sharp criticism. The Moroccan side, already embroiled in a dispute over the referee’s appointment, has lodged an official complaint with the CAF, alleging an imbalance in the officiating teams for the two legs of the final.

AS FAR challenges Ndala’s appointment before the CAF

In a strongly worded letter, AS FAR has highlighted what it describes as a troubling pattern in Ndala’s recent performances. The club argues that the referee’s appointment for the first leg—where the officiating trio is predominantly from the same region—contrasts sharply with the more diverse selection planned for the return match in Rabat on May 24. This discrepancy, they claim, undermines the fairness of the competition.

However, the Moroccan club’s primary grievance lies with Ndala’s handling of the AFCON final, which saw Morocco awarded a forfeited victory by the Appeals Jury under articles 82 and 84 of the tournament’s regulations. The decision, later contested by Senegal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), has further fueled the controversy surrounding Ndala’s credibility. Now, AS FAR has taken its objections to the CAF, demanding a review of the referee’s appointment to ensure impartiality.

Mamelodi Sundowns joins the chorus of dissent

Adding to the pressure on the CAF, reports suggest that Mamelodi Sundowns has also expressed reservations about Ndala’s involvement in the final. The South African club’s concerns, though less vocal than those of AS FAR, underscore the growing unease among stakeholders about the referee’s fitness to oversee such a pivotal match.

As the CAF navigates this fresh controversy, the stakes could not be higher. The outcome of the final will determine the champion of Africa’s premier club competition, and the integrity of the process is now under intense scrutiny. With the CAS poised to weigh in on the AFCON final dispute, the CAF faces a critical juncture in restoring confidence in its officiating decisions.