CAF hands centre‑ref duties to seasoned Gambian as Nigeria’s women gear up for key tie.
Lomé, Togo – The ever‑dominant Nigerian women’s football team, the Super Falcons, face a key hurdle in their bid to qualify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and the officiating crew for the first leg of their showdown with Benin Republic has now been confirmed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Officiating lineup:
- Centre referee: Ngum Fatou (Gambia)
- Assistant referees: Mariem Chedad & Hamedine Houleye (both Mauritania)
- Fourth official: Isatou Touray (Gambia)
- Match commissioner: Halimatou Hamidou (Niger Republic)
- Referee assessor: Martha Nyekanyeka (Malawi)
Match details:
The first leg is scheduled to take place at the 25,000‑capacity Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo, on Thursday (or Friday depending on local announcements). Kkick‑off is set for 3 p.m. (Togo time) / 4 p.m. (Nigeria time). The return leg will be played at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.
What this means for Nigeria:
The Super Falcons have been here many times before. But every qualifying round brings its own challenges. The appointment of a Gambian official highlights CAF’s growing pool of match‑officials from across Africa, and in such a fixture the consistency and fairness of officiating matter for Nigeria’s ambitions.
Team build‑up:
The Falcons have already ramped up preparations, with key players such as six‑time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala and other domestic and overseas‑based stars arriving in Lomé this week to begin training. Coach Justine Madugu (or possibly interim/acting depending on the staff) has emphasised focus and discipline ahead of the tie.
Why the referee matters:
In matches of this magnitude where the margin for error is small and the stakes high. The referee’s decisions often influence the flow of the game. Ngum Fatou’s appointment signals CAF’s trust in her to lead a fixture with continental significance. For Nigeria, maintaining discipline and composure will be critical under her watch.
Looking ahead:
For the Super Falcons, this tie is more than just a single fixture. It is another step in their quest to reclaim continental supremacy and book a spot at the 2026 WAFCON (hosted by Morocco) which also serves as part of the qualification pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The return leg in Abeokuta gives Nigeria another chance to wrap up qualification on home soil, but the first leg in Lomé must be treated with both caution and urgency. Stay tuned to Hot Sports Scoops for full previews, match‑ratings, player focus and post‑match reaction.