Africa-Press – Mozambique. Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed has been appointed to officiate Sunday’s high-stakes 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs final between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Jayed, 38, is a familiar figure to the Nigerian national team, having overseen several of their recent fixtures.
He refereed Nigeria’s 2–0 victory over Rwanda in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers last March, and also handled the 2–1 friendly win against Ghana in Marrakech in 2024.
His experience with Nigerian games is expected to bring a level of consistency and understanding to the crucial matchup.
For Sunday’s encounter, Jayed will be supported by a team of fellow North African officials.
Compatriots Mustapha Akarkad and Zakaria Bernissi will serve as first and second assistant referees respectively, while Tunisia’s Mahrez El Malki has been named fourth official.
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) responsibilities will be jointly handled by Lahlou Benbraham of Algeria and Haitham Guirat of Tunisia, ensuring additional oversight for what is expected to be a tense and finely balanced contest.
The decisive match will take place at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, with both nations vying for a place in the Intercontinental Playoffs, scheduled for March 2026 in the Mexican cities of Guadalajara and Monterrey.
The winner on Sunday will move one step closer to securing a coveted ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding extra pressure to an already monumental showdown.
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