‘Appalling officiating’ Ray Quarcoo reacts to Egypt South Africa AFCON decision

Ghana’s goodwill sports ambassador, Ray Quarcoo, has criticised the performance of Burundian referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana following what he described as poor officiating during the Egypt versus South Africa Group match at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The controversial match, played on Friday, December 26, ended in a 1-0 victory for Egypt, but was overshadowed by debate over the referee’s decision not to award South Africa a penalty for what many observers considered a clear handball by an Egyptian defender in the penalty area.

Reacting to the incident from abroad, Mr Quarcoo said the referee’s handling of the game not only denied South Africa a deserved outcome but also brought the credibility of the continental tournament into question.

“The referee’s performance was appalling, turning a blind eye to an obvious handball by an Egyptian in their vital area raised eyebrows,” the former Ghana Boxing Federation president and ex member of the Black Stars Management Committee said in an interview.

He argued that the missed decision significantly affected the outcome of the match, insisting that South Africa were unfairly treated despite putting in a strong performance.

“It is so unfortunate his actions robbed the South Africans in a game they played so well. Indeed, his actions were a clear indication as though his palm was greased. I consider his actions as a clear case of inferiority complex on the part of the referee,” Mr Quarcoo added.

The veteran sports administrator said the officiating had dented the image of the Africa Cup of Nations and risked undermining confidence in match officials if left unchecked.

“I am therefore appealling to the continent’s football governing body, Confederation of African Football (CAF) to bring the Burundian referee to book to serve as a deterrent for others. This will ensure fair officiating in the subsequent matches,” he said.

The result left Bafana Bafana frustrated after what many analysts described as a disciplined and competitive display against the seven time African champions. South Africa will next face Zimbabwe in their second group match on Monday as they seek to revive their campaign.

Referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana is a well-known international match official who has handled several high profile Confederation of African Football fixtures, including CAF Champions League matches. He is also recognised by FIFA as both a central referee and a Video Match Official, representing Burundi on the continental and global stage.