Ghanaian Referee Reflects on High-Pressure AFCON Match

Even the people who enforce the rules feel butterflies when the stakes are highest.

Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea opened up about the nerves he experienced before officiating the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final between host nation Morocco and Nigeria. The match, held in Morocco, ended in a dramatic penalty shootout with the hosts winning 4-2 after 120 scoreless minutes.

Speaking to reporters after arriving home at Accra Airport, Laryea shared a refreshingly honest perspective on handling pressure. "I've been to three AFCON tournaments, but this is the first time I've been in a semi-final," he explained.

The veteran official acknowledged that being selected for such a crucial match was both an honor and a challenge. "When coaches choose you for that game, they know your skills and what you can do," Laryea said with evident pride.

But skill and confidence don't erase anxiety completely. "Of course, you feel a little anxious because of the level of the match," he admitted.

His transparency matters in a profession where referees often face intense scrutiny and criticism. Laryea also took time to address unfounded claims that he had favored Morocco during the tightly contested encounter, dismissing those accusations directly.

Why This Inspires

Laryea's willingness to share his very human feelings reminds us that excellence and vulnerability can coexist. His journey from attending AFCON tournaments to officiating a semi-final shows dedication paying off, even when it comes with nerves.

Professional sports referees rarely get recognition for the mental strength required to make split-second decisions while millions watch. By speaking openly about his anxiety, Laryea humanizes a role often reduced to right or wrong calls.

His story also highlights an important truth: feeling nervous doesn't mean you're unprepared. Sometimes it means you understand exactly how much the moment matters and you're committed to getting it right.

Laryea handled one of African football's biggest stages with professionalism, proving that acknowledging pressure is a sign of strength, not weakness.