Namibia’s Twanyanyukwa to Officiate WAFCON 2024 Final Between Nigeria and Morocco

Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa has been appointed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to officiate the highly anticipated final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) between hosts Morocco and Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Saturday in Rabat, Sport360NG reports.

Twanyanyukwa’s selection is historic, making her the first Namibian official to take charge of a WAFCON final. Her appointment comes on the back of impressive performances throughout the tournament, earning praise from CAF’s refereeing department.

Reacting to the news, a visibly emotional Twanyanyukwa said, “This came as a total surprise. I’m still trying to process it, but with God, all things are possible. WAFCON is a major platform, and we’re aware of the magnitude of the moment. We’ll step onto that pitch knowing the whole continent is watching, and we must give everything.”

Reflecting on her journey, she added, “I’ve always believed in my ability. Now I have the chance to showcase it on the biggest stage in African women’s football. I know my country will be proud, and I hope this inspires the next generation. My message to young aspiring referees is simple, work hard, stay disciplined, and never stop believing.”

CAF’s Head of Refereeing, Desire Noumandiez Doue, commended her elevation to the final, attributing it to her consistency and professionalism. “Her appointment is a testament to the quality she’s displayed both during matches and in training. She’s earned this opportunity,” he noted.

Joining Twanyanyukwa for the final are assistant referees Alice Umutesi of Rwanda and Senegal’s Tabara Mbodji. The VAR team will be led by Rwanda’s Salima Mukansanga, a pioneer in the women’s game and the first woman to officiate at the men’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2022. She’ll be supported by Letticia Viana of Eswatini and Zambia’s Diana Chikotesha.

The Super Falcons, who edged defending champions South Africa 2-1 in the semi-finals, are seeking to reclaim the WAFCON title they narrowly missed out on in 2022 after a semi-final defeat to Morocco. A win in Saturday’s clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium would hand Nigeria their 10th African crown.