Expert opinion: why was Jean-Jacques Ndala left out of the 2026 World Cup? | OneFootball

It goes without saying that his disappointing performance in the final of the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) between Morocco and Senegal was decisive in his exclusion.In addition to his disputed technical decisions, he was also found lacking in his management of the crisis that erupted after the Senegalese national team decided to walk off the pitch—a situation he struggled to control.

For the governing body of African football, it is unacceptable for such an experienced referee to handle a major final in this manner.The CAF believes that Jean-Jacques Ndala bears some responsibility for the negative image projected during this major African football event.In summary, the Congolese referee is paying the price for his performance in that final, especially with expectations at their highest as the World Cup approaches.

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