Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea has rejected accusations of bias during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final between Nigeria and Morocco, insisting he officiates strictly according to the laws of the game.
He returned home to a celebratory reception in Accra, DAILY GAZETTE reports.
Laryea was greeted with cheers, drumming, and sustained applause at Kotoka International Airport on Saturday, reflecting widespread support for his performance at the tournament.
The experienced official had come under scrutiny after being appointed to oversee the high-profile semi-final, in which Nigeria lost 4-2 on penalties to host nation Morocco. Some fans and players questioned his impartiality following the defeat.
Speaking to Joy TV, Laryea acknowledged the pressure of officiating at that level but said the appointment itself was recognition of his quality.
“It was a normal feeling. Of course, there is a bit of anxiety because it was my first time officiating a semi-final at AFCON.
I have participated in three AFCONs before, and being chosen for such a game shows confidence in your abilities. You just have to do your best,” he said.
On handling criticism from Nigerian fans and social media, Laryea remained undeterred.
“For me, I just focus on refereeing. I don’t follow what is being said online. I simply apply the laws of the game,” he stated.
Currently Ghana’s top referee, Laryea has been on the FIFA International Referees list since 2014.
He began officiating at age 17 in Ghana’s lower leagues and later progressed to the Ghana Premier League, debuting in a match between Medeama SC and Berekum Chelsea FC.
Since earning his FIFA badge, Laryea has handled several major international assignments, including the 2017 CAF U-17 Cup of Nations in Gabon, the 2018 WAFU Cup of Nations and African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Morocco, the 2020 CHAN in Cameroon, and the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, also in Cameroon.
