CAF executive committee WhatsApp group sees tense exchanges over Jean-Jacques Ndala's appointment
via SeneNews1 min read
Following the scandal surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, the Confederation of African Football CAF has not implemented major reforms. The only significant change was the departure of Secretary General V茅ron Mosengo Omba, who was compelled by age limits and encouraged by FIFA to seek the presidency of the Congolese Football Federation in Kinshasa. Beyond this, no other changes have occurred, suggesting this single decision was deemed sufficient to rectify a weakened system. A symbol of this inertia is the appointment of Jean-Jacques Ndala, a highly controversial referee from the Morocco-Senegal final, to officiate the Champions League final. This decision has caused widespread incomprehension within the confederation, particularly among members of the Executive Committee Comex. Tense exchanges unfolded in the Comex WhatsApp group, with members protesting the appointment. Notably, Samuel Eto'o and Faizal Sidat, president of the Mozambique federation, voiced their objections. Augustin Senghor, who has been largely silent for years, also expressed his dissatisfaction, a stance he has maintained since the last AFCON final. Even Idriss Diallo of C么te d'Ivoire, typically reserved, spoke out, indicating palpable tension. Several members demanded "immediate change." Off the record, some question how CAF could appoint Jean-Jacques Ndala when FIFA did not select him for the upcoming World Cup. This situation raises further concerns, especially since Olivier Safari, the he
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Follow the live coverage of the Uruguay vs. Cape Verde Islands match in the 2026 World Cup group stage on SeneNews. The game is scheduled to kick off on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at 10:00 PM Dakar time at Hard Rock Stadium. SeneNews will provide live scores, team compositions, and a running commentary of the match, including goals, substitutions, cards, and highlights, with automatic updates throughout the game. Stay tuned for statistics and reactions.
Senegal's national team coach, Pape Thiaw, addressed the media ahead of the friendly match against Norway, confirming his offensive strategy and defending his team selections. Thiaw emphasized the collective dynamic and internal competition within the squad, stating that all players are motivated to perform. He downplayed criticism regarding the team's offensive efficiency, attributing observed difficulties to a lack of finishing rather than a lack of chances created. Thiaw expressed confidence in his team's ability to create opportunities, stating he prefers players who generate chances. He hopes for improved offensive success in the upcoming match against Norway, highlighting its importance. The coach is expected to maintain his preferred offensive trio, with Nicolas Jackson as the striker, supported by Sadio Man茅 on the left and Isma茂la Sarr on the right. Young offensive players like Ibrahim Mbaye are likely to start on the bench, with potential to be introduced in the second half, consistent with previous matches.
Pape Thiaw, coach of the Senegal Lions, addressed recent internal tensions within the team and clarified his contract situation during a press conference. Ahead of a friendly match against Norway, Thiaw acknowledged the existence of internal dysfunctions but assured that the situation is now under control. He emphasized the collective desire of the staff, players, and Federation to focus on sporting performance. Regarding his contract, Thiaw confirmed that the issue has been resolved after a period of uncertainty. He clarified that the delay was not due to financial disagreements but rather a matter of principle and respect, highlighting the importance of institutional conditions for his role.