This is the first time I’ve been in a semi-final – Ghanaian referee

Ghanaian match official Daniel Laryea has revealed that nerves were part of his experience before taking charge of the high-stakes 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final between Morocco and Nigeria

Speaking to journalists on his return to Accra, Laryea addressed the pressure surrounding the fixture and rejected suggestions that his decisions tilted in favour of the tournament hosts.

The semi-final, played before a packed Moroccan crowd, remained deadlocked through regulation time and extra time, ending 0–0 after 120 minutes. Morocco eventually progressed to the final after prevailing 4–2 in the penalty shoot-out.

Laryea, who has officiated at several AFCON tournaments, described the match as a major milestone in his refereeing career.

“I’ve been to three AFCON tournaments, but this is the first time I’ve been in a semi-final,” he said.

Highlighting the significance of being entrusted with such a fixture, the Ghanaian referee added: “So when coaches choose you for that game, they know your skills and what you can do.

“But of course, you feel a little anxious because of the level of the match.”

He maintained that his performance was guided strictly by the laws of the game, insisting that the occasion demanded focus, fairness and composure rather than allegiance to any side.