The Moroccan club AS FAR has strongly opposed the selection of referee Jean-Jacques Ndala for the upcoming CAF Champions League final against South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns. With the first leg set for May 17 in Pretoria, tensions are rising as the AS FAR management has formally requested his immediate replacement.
Why is AS FAR demanding a new referee?
The decision comes in the wake of controversial officiating decisions that have left a sour taste in the club’s mouth. AS FAR, returning to a continental final after 41 years, expressed its concerns to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), citing Ndala’s handling of the chaotic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Morocco and Senegal as a major red flag.
Key moments of contention include the failure to penalize the Senegalese team for leaving the pitch on January 18 at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, as well as the absence of yellow cards for players who returned to the field. These decisions have raised serious questions about Ndala’s ability to manage high-stakes matches with fairness and clarity.
Ndala’s track record raises eyebrows
The AS FAR leadership has also pointed out that Ndala was previously sidelined by FIFA for the 2026 World Cup due to his performance in the 2025 AFCON final. This history of controversy has only strengthened their argument for his removal from the upcoming final.
As the countdown to the match begins, the club’s stance remains firm: Jean-Jacques Ndala cannot be trusted to officiate this pivotal game. The AS FAR management is urging the CAF to take swift action and ensure a fair and transparent refereeing process.
