‘That was my first time’ – Controversial Ghanaian referee explains shaky performance in Super Eagles AFCON semifinal

Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea has broken his silence after coming under heavy criticism for his handling of the AFCON 2025 semifinal clash between Nigeria and host nation Morocco.

The official, whose decisions sparked outrage among Super Eagles fans, insisted the pressure of the occasion played a major role in what many described as a shaky performance.

Speaking in a viral video recorded at Accra airport after returning to Ghana, Laryea described the Morocco–Nigeria semifinal as the toughest game of the entire tournament. Morocco edged Nigeria 4–2 on penalties after a tense 0–0 draw across 120 minutes in Rabat, ending the Super Eagles’ hopes of a fourth AFCON title.

“Normally in tournaments, semi-finals are the toughest games because now people want to go for finals,” Laryea said. “Whatever work they put into coming to that time, this is their stage when going to the final.”

He also highlighted the magnitude of the competition, stressing the honour that comes with officiating at such a level. “AFCON is the biggest stage in Africa, and it is the second best or second-ranked tournament in the world.

"We have the World Cup, the Euros, and we have the AFCON,” he added. “So, as a referee, if you are given that stage, it’s a big, big opportunity for you.”

Laryea admitted the semifinal marked a personal milestone in his career. “That was my first time doing a semi-final in AFCON,” he revealed.

“I’ve been to three AFCONs; this is the first time I’m doing a semi-final. So, when coaches appoint you to do that game, they know the qualities and what you can do. But, of course, you have a bit of anxiety because of the level.”

The match drew controversy, particularly over the yellow card shown to Calvin Bassey, which ruled the Nigerian defender out of the next game. However, Laryea rejected accusations of favouritism towards Morocco. “For me, I just do my refereeing. I just play football. I don’t listen to what goes on in or out of social media,” he said.

Despite the backlash, Nigeria recovered to secure bronze in the third-place playoff, while criticism of Laryea reportedly intensified online after the semifinal defeat.