African Whistles Set to Echo on Global Stage at 2025 FIFA Club World Cup
As the world counts down to the much-anticipated debut of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, taking place from June 14 to July 13 in the United States, Africa beams with pride. Five of the continent’s finest referees have earned a coveted spot on football’s global stage, poised to represent not just their nations but the rising standard of African officiating.
Hailing from different corners of the continent — Dahane Beida (Mauritania), Mustapha Ghorbal (Algeria), Ibrahim Mutaz (Libya), Jean Jacques Ndala (DR Congo), and Issa Sy (Senegal) — these referees are set to bring their experience, integrity, and passion for fair play to the world’s biggest club football showdown.
This prestigious appointment places them among an elite group of 117 match officials from 41 FIFA member associations, a pool that includes 35 referees, 58 assistant referees, and 24 video match officials. Their selection is not only a testament to their skills but also to Africa’s growing influence in the global officiating community.
Among the standout names is Mustapha Ghorbal, a seasoned professional who has graced stages like the FIFA World Cup and various CAF competitions. Ndala and Sy, too, have built strong reputations with consistent performances across both African and international competitions, solidifying their roles as ambassadors of the game.
Adding a revolutionary twist to this year’s tournament, FIFA will introduce referee body cameras — a first in football history. Through a partnership with DAZN, fans will get a unique perspective on officiating decisions, bringing more transparency and closer engagement with the action. For the referees, it’s not only a chance to officiate but also to be part of a technological milestone that will aid in training, analysis, and global fan connection.
Pierluigi Collina, Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, hailed the appointments as a “privilege” and a career-defining moment, especially as these referees step into history at the tournament’s inaugural expanded edition.
As top clubs from around the world clash in pursuit of glory, these African referees will ensure the rules are upheld with integrity and skill. More than calling fouls and issuing cards, they’ll be inspiring a new generation of African referees, showing the world the heart and talent that Africa brings to the beautiful game.