‘Incompetent Referee’ - Nigerians blast Ghanaian official over Calvin Bassey’s controversial Yellow Card

Nigerian football fans have taken to social media in fury after Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey was shown a contentious yellow card during the AFCON 2025 semi-final clash against hosts Morocco.

The booking, issued by a Ghanaian referee, Daniel Laryea in the 33rd minute at the Stade Mohammed V, has been widely criticised as unjust and poorly officiated.

Replays of the incident appeared to show Moroccan attacker Brahim Díaz pulling Bassey’s shirt during a physical duel, yet the Nigerian defender was the one penalised.

The decision carries major consequences for Nigeria. Bassey entered the semi-final on one prior booking.

Under CAF disciplinary rules, the yellow card means he will be suspended for the AFCON final if Nigeria advances past Morocco.

The Fulham defender has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s backline throughout the tournament.

Nigerians were quick to react. Political commentator and influencer JJ Omojuwa (@Omojuwa)wrote on X: “This referee is completely incompetent. Díaz pulled Bassey but Bassey got a yellow instead. Shocking.”

User @BREAKOUTgOD added: “Disgusting officiating from this Ghanaian ref. Not even a foul, let alone a yellow card on Bassey.”

Meanwhile, @maestro_1011 questioned the decision outright: “How is that a yellow card for Calvin Bassey? Brahim Díaz pulled his shirt! African referees need to do way better.”