Nigerian fans have turned their anger on Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea following the Super Eagles’ dramatic exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a goalless draw with hosts Morocco ended 4-2 on penalties in the semi-final in Rabat.
The tense encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium produced few clear chances, with Morocco enjoying slightly more possession and coming closest in extra time when Nayef Aguerd struck the woodwork. Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also made key saves to keep the contest level before the penalty shootout.
Post-match discussions were dominated by refereeing controversies, with Nigerian supporters pointing to waved-away penalty appeals, unpunished fouls, and a contentious yellow card shown to Calvin Bassey for minimal contact with Brahim Díaz, a decision that would have ruled the defender out of the final had Nigeria progressed.
Although VAR reviews upheld the on-field decisions, the calls triggered widespread backlash on social media. Much of the criticism was centred on Gossip Mill Nigeria, where a post asking users, “One word for the Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii officiating this Nigeria vs Morocco match???” generated over 2,000 comments, most of them sharply critical of the officiating.
Referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea emerged as the focal point of the backlash, with several users questioning his impartiality and linking their frustration to his Ghanaian nationality, further inflaming the long-standing Nigeria–Ghana football rivalry.
Some of the reactions included comments such as, “This Ghana man wanted Morocco to win,” and “Brahim Diaz pulls Bassey’s shirt and Bassey gets booked.” Others used stronger language to express their disappointment following Nigeria’s elimination.
Despite the controversy, the semi-final underlined the passion and intensity that define African football. Morocco now advance to the final to face Senegal, while Nigeria’s AFCON campaign ends amid renewed debate over refereeing standards and fairness.
One word for the Ghanaian Ref Daniel Nii Officiating This Nigeria Vs Morocco Match ??? pic.twitter.com/1b0TNrjasN
— Gossip Mill Nigeria (@GossipMillNaija) January 14, 2026
