AFCON 2025: I was anxious before Nigeria-Morocco match – Ghanaian referee

Daniel Laryea, the Ghanaian referee, has admitted he felt nervous ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final clash between hosts Morocco and Nigeria.

Daniel disclosed on Sunday to the reporters after he arrived at Accra Airport, describing the match as the toughest encounter he has ever officiated and dismissed the claims that he favoured the host nation.

Recall that Morocco defeated Nigeria 4–2 on penalties after a goalless draw over 120 minutes in the semifinal to secure a place in the final against Senegal.

Morocco beat Nigeria on penalties to reach AFCON 2025 final

The Super Eagles later went on to triumph over Egypt and received the bronze medal in the third-place match played on Saturday.

Daniel said that any team in the semi-final has a sole aim to reach the final, which makes the match more intense than any other. “Normally in tournaments, semi-finals are the toughest games because now people want to go for finals,” he said.

He added, “AFCON is the biggest stage in Africa, and it is the second-best or second-ranked tournament in the world. We have the World Cup, the Euros, and we have the AFCON.

“This is what we have in Africa. So, as a referee, if you are given that stage, it’s a big, big opportunity for you.”

He also said the match was his first Afcon semi-final to officiate, noting that his appointment reflected the confidence of the organisers in him.

“That was my first time doing a semi-final in AFCON. I’ve been to three AFCONs; this is the first time I’m doing a semi-final. So, when coaches appoint you to do that game, they know the qualities and what you can do.

“But, of course, you have a bit of anxiety because of the level,” he said.