The highly anticipated third-place playoff of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2026 is set to feature a familiar face leading the officiating team. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially designated an experienced Moroccan refereeing squad to oversee the crucial clash between giants Egypt and Nigeria, scheduled for Saturday, January 17, in Casablanca. This match, pitting two of Africa's premier footballing nations against each other for continental bronze, demands precision and authority on the pitch.
CAF Selects Experienced Officials for High-Stakes Bronze Medal Game
Following a tournament characterized by intense competition and several high-profile matchups, CAF is prioritizing experienced officials for the final stages. The decision to appoint a fully Moroccan team for the Egypt vs. Nigeria fixture underscores the governing body's confidence in the quality and impartiality of their top referees, particularly in matches involving historic rivals.
The game will take place at the iconic Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, providing a grand stage for these two teams to conclude their AFCON 2026 campaigns on a high note. For both the Pharaohs and the Super Eagles, securing the bronze medal is vital—a way to salvage their tournament participation and add another accolade to their storied national histories.
The Man in the Middle: Jalal Jayed Takes Charge
The centerpiece of the officiating crew is head referee Jalal Jayed. Hailing from Morocco, Jayed is widely regarded across the continent as one of the most respected and capable referees operating today. His appointment suggests CAF anticipates a fiercely contested match, one requiring a calm yet authoritative presence to manage the inevitable pressure cooker environment.
Jayed’s track record in major continental competitions speaks volumes about his standing within African football officiating circles. Managing the tempers and technical nuances of a game between Egypt, a perennial powerhouse often expected to reach the final, and Nigeria, known for their dynamic and sometimes unpredictable style, will be his ultimate test in this tournament.
The Full Officiating Crew: A Blend of Experience and Modern Technology
Jayed will not be working alone. He will be supported by his compatriots, Zakaria Brinsi and Mostafa Akarkad, who will serve as the assistant referees (linesmen). Their familiarity with Jayed’s style is expected to foster seamless communication and coordination throughout the 90 minutes.
VAR Implementation: International Expertise for Crucial Decisions
In the modern era of elite football, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system is crucial for ensuring fair outcomes, especially in tight, high-stakes matches. CAF has opted for a mixed international team to handle the video reviews, aiming to leverage diverse perspectives for maximum accuracy.
The VAR duties will be spearheaded by Lahlou Benbraham from Algeria, a highly regarded official in his own right. He will be supported by a team including Haythem Guirat of Tunisia and Hamza El Fariq from Morocco. This tripartite structure in the VAR room highlights CAF's commitment to transparency and minimizing crucial on-field errors through technological oversight.
CAF officials have reportedly stressed the importance of swift and clear communication between the pitch and the VAR booth, recognizing that delays or ambiguity in reviews can further inflame tensions between the competing sides and their passionate fan bases.
Context: The Road to the Bronze Finale
Both Egypt and Nigeria enter this match nursing significant semifinal disappointments. The prospect of leaving the tournament without silverware is a heavy burden for two nations accustomed to fighting for the title.
Nigeria’s journey to the bronze match was agonizing. They were narrowly eliminated by the tournament hosts, Morocco, following a grueling penalty shootout that tested the nerves of every player involved. That loss, while heartbreaking, showcased the Super Eagles' resilience throughout the competition.
Meanwhile, Egypt suffered a decisive defeat against Senegal in their semifinal clash. Despite their historic pedigree in the AFCON tournament, the Pharaohs fell short, leaving them eager to rebound immediately with a victory in the final match for third place. For Egypt, this game is about pride and maintaining their status as a top-three force in African football.
More Than Just Bronze: Legacy on the Line
While the final and the semi-finals often capture the most attention, the third-place playoff carries significant weight. It's an opportunity for managers to give meaningful minutes to squad players and for veterans to end their tournament tenure on a winning note. Furthermore, it provides a crucial psychological boost heading into the next international cycle.
For the fans, this match represents the final chance to celebrate their team’s efforts in the 2026 tournament. Expect the atmosphere in Casablanca to be electric, with dedicated contingents from both Cairo and Abuja urging their teams on. With experienced officials like Jalal Jayed presiding, the focus remains squarely on the beautiful game, ensuring that the final whistle blows on a contest decided by skill, not controversy.
Football analysts are predicting a tight affair. Nigeria’s attacking flair will likely clash with Egypt’s tactical discipline. The ability of Jayed and his team to manage this volatile mix will ultimately define the narrative of the AFCON 2026 bronze medal game.
