AFCON 2025 Match Drama: CAF Makes Late Referee Change Ahead of Morocco vs Cameroon Quarter-Final After Moroccan FA Complaint

Drama has erupted at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed a late change to the officiating team for the highly anticipated quarter-final clash between Morocco and Cameroon, following a formal complaint from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).

Egyptian referee Amin Omar was initially appointed to oversee the fixture, which will take place today, January 9, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. However, CAF has now replaced him with experienced Mauritanian official Dahane Beida after reviewing concerns raised by the Moroccan FA.

The late intervention has not gone down well with all parties. The Cameroonian Football Federation is reportedly unhappy with the development and has signaled its intention to file an appeal, further fueling tension ahead of the heavyweight encounter.