CAF unveils the pre-selection of referees for the next CAN 2024
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is actively preparing for the next African Cup of Nations (CAN) which will take place in January and February 2024. Behind the scenes, the selection of central and assistant referees is underway and several profiles stand out Already. Among these officials, we find the Congolese Jean-Jacques Ndala, who was selected in the preliminary list of referees for the continental tournament.
According to a CAF inspector who wished to remain anonymous, Jean-Jacques Ndala is among the referees who will be part of the major African football event. However, it should be noted that CAF is yet to officially confirm the names of the referees selected for the competition. We will therefore have to wait for the official announcement from the governing body to know all the referees who will have the privilege of directing the CAN 2024 matches.
It is interesting to note that Jean-Jacques Ndala is the only Congolese referee on the preliminary list, his friend Olivier Safari not having been selected for the moment. However, this does not mean that the final composition of the refereeing team is definitive. Changes could still take place in the coming weeks, especially with the absence of some renowned referees such as Victor Gomes from South Africa, Janny Sikazwe from Zambia, Maguette Ndiaye from Senegal and Salima Mukansanga from Rwanda.
This possible evolution in the selection of referees demonstrates the importance given by CAF to the quality and performance of officials who will have the difficult task of directing CAN matches. The confederation must ensure that it chooses experienced and competent referees, capable of ensuring fairness and the smooth running of matches, while maintaining the level of requirements expected in a competition of this scale.
While waiting for the official announcement from CAF, Jean-Jacques Ndala can already prepare himself by participating in preparation sessions for the CAN 2024 matches. This experience will allow him to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to officiate during this major sporting event.
The presence of a Congolese referee in the list of preselected for CAN 2024 is a source of pride for Congolese football. This demonstrates the recognition of the talent and professionalism of Congolese referees on the continental scene. We hope that Jean-Jacques Ndala will be able to represent his country with dignity and contribute to the success of the competition as a referee.
In conclusion, the selection of referees for the next CAN is a crucial process to ensure the smooth running of matches.. The presence of Jean-Jacques Ndala in the preliminary list is good news for Congolese football, but we remain waiting for the officialization of CAF to know all the referees selected. Let us hope that this competition will take place in the best possible conditions, with referees who are up to the challenges of African football.