AS FAR and Sundowns protest referee choice for Champions League final

Posted : 05 May 2026

AS FAR and Mamelodi Sundowns have submitted formal complaints to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over the selection of Jean-Jacques Ndala. The Congolese official is scheduled to lead an all-Congolese refereeing team for the first leg of the CAF Champions League final. Both finalists are reportedly unhappy with the choice given the official's recent history in major tournaments.

The primary concern stems from Ndala's performance during the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal. That match was marred by a temporary walk-off by the Senegalese team following a disputed penalty decision. Although Morocco was later awarded the title via a forfeit ruling, Ndala's handling of the game remains under heavy scrutiny.

Further doubts about the official’s current standing have been raised following his exclusion from the 2026 FIFA World Cup officials list. Moroccan observers have pointed out that his absence from the global stage suggests a lack of top-level form. Sundowns also initially expressed concern over regional ties when Egyptian referee Amin Mohamed Omar was considered.

The first-leg encounter has already faced logistical adjustments after Mamelodi Sundowns requested a 48-hour delay for the match. The fixture is now confirmed for Sunday, May 17, at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. This shift was granted to help the South African side manage travel and recovery time for their squad.

On the pitch, both teams reached the final following impressive semi-final victories against regional rivals. AS FAR progressed after a 2-1 aggregate win over RS Berkane, while Sundowns knocked out Tunisian giants Esperance. The winner of this two-legged tie will secure qualification for both the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup.

CAF has not yet officially responded to the joint protests from the two clubs regarding a change of referee. If the current appointment stands, Ndala will be assisted by Julien Bonjela and Mbelezi Gradel on the sidelines. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team for the Pretoria clash will be led by Sudan's Ahmed Abdel Aziz.

The second leg is scheduled to take place on May 24 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Somali official Omar Abdulkadir Artan has already been designated to referee that decisive encounter. Both clubs remain focused on ensuring a fair officiating environment for the biggest game in African club football.

AS FAR and Sundowns protest referee choice for Champions League final

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