• Tuesday, April 30, 2024
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2024 Olympics: FIFA excludes Nigerian referees, names 12 African match officials

Nigerian referee

No Nigerian referees were selected as FIFA Referees Committee has announced 12 match officials from Africa for the upcoming for the upcoming 2024 Olympics Football Tournaments in Paris.

A total of 89 match officials with 12 from Africa were chosen highlighting the continent’s proficiency and contribution to the global football arena.

The women’s tournament is slated to commence on July 25, 2024, with the gold medal match scheduled at the Parc des Princes in Paris on August 10, 2024.

Similarly, the men’s competition will kick off on July 24, 2024, concluding with the final match on August 9, 2024, also at the Parc des Princes.

These African match officials will undergo thorough preparation and receive ongoing support from a team of FIFA technical trainers, including referees and video assistant referee (VAR) instructors.

Additionally, they will benefit from guidance and assistance provided by match analysts, fitness coaches, physiotherapists, and sports scientists throughout the Olympic Games.

The inclusion of these African match officials underscores the continent’s abundant refereeing talent and their readiness to officiate at the highest levels of international football.

For the appointed match officials, the Olympic Football Tournaments Paris 2024 signifies a significant step in their journey towards prestigious events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

Among the 12 African referees selected for the tournament are; Beida Dahane from Mauritania, Ismail Mahmood Ali M. from Sudan, and Karboubi Bouchra from Morocco.

Additionally, assistant referees from Africa include; Ahmed Liban Abdoulrazack from Djibouti, Chikotesha Diana from Zambia, Jermoumi Fatiha from Morocco, Noupue Elvis from Cameroon, Santos Jerson Emiliano Dos from Angola, and Yiembe Stephen from Kenya.

In the category of video match officials, Ashour Mahmoud from Egypt and Benbraham Lahlou from Algeria will play vital roles.

Moreover, Nabadda Shamirah from Uganda will provide support as part of the match officials’ team.