The African Football Confederation (CAF) has announced the roster of referees chosen for the preparatory training ahead of the upcoming U17 Africa Cup of Nations, a pivotal stage before the final selection of match officials for the tournament in Morocco from 13 May to 2 June.
Senegal’s sole representative in the referee pool
Senegal will be represented by a single official in this phase: El Hadj Amadou Sy. Following the training camp, the CAF will finalize the list of referees who will officiate at the U17 CAN in Morocco. Appointed a FIFA referee in 2019, El Hadj Amadou Sy continues to rise through the ranks. Born in Saint-Louis, he began his officiating journey in local amateur competitions, starting in youth categories before progressing to senior levels and later establishing himself in Senegal’s professional league.
A seasoned continental official
El Hadj Amadou Sy has extensive experience in continental tournaments, having officiated at the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations and the previous U17 Africa Cup of Nations, where he was among the selected officials. Historically, Senegal has often fielded multiple referees or full Senegalese officiating teams in African competitions. This year, El Hadj Amadou Sy carries the nation’s hopes alone during the preparatory stage, aiming to secure a spot in the final list and represent Senegal at the tournament, which will also feature the national U17 team.
Most represented nations in the referee pool
The countries with the highest representation in the referee pool include Algeria, Cameroon, DR Congo, Morocco, Zambia, and South Africa, each contributing three referees. Other nations such as Tunisia, Mali, Nigeria, and Egypt have two officials each in the list.
