Below is a minute-by-minute record of controversial decisions involving the Ghanaian referee, Daniel Laryea, during the Nigeria vs Morocco match.
According to football analyst who put the records together, the documentation is devoid of emotions, but presentation of what transpired during the match under review.
18’
Brahim kicks the ball out. Referee blows against Osayi-Samuel and awards a throw-in to Morocco.
Note: There were questionable calls before this, but this is where we begin.
22’
Brahim clearly handballs while attempting to chest the ball. No whistle.
32’
Calvin Bassey is shown a yellow card for an action that wasn’t even a foul.
34’
Clear foul on Ezzazouli not given.
36’
Another obvious foul ignored.
51’
Lookman is clearly pulled. No foul.
52’
Onyedika goes in for a fair 50–50 challenge. Foul given against Nigeria.
At this point, it feels like Nigeria isn’t allowed to touch a Moroccan shirt.
58’
Osayi-Samuel is simply marking Ezzazouli. Free kick awarded to Morocco.
65’
Ezzazouli blasts the ball away in frustration. No yellow card.
68’
Ball clearly stays in play, yet throw-in is awarded to Morocco.
Even Moroccan players look confused.
88’
Free kick awarded to Hakimi when Moses Simon clearly didn’t touch him.
It should have been Nigeria’s corner.
92’
Moses Simon cleanly wins the ball from Hakimi, but the referee calls a foul, stopping a clear counterattack.
93’
Clear foul on Onyeka. Referee waves play on.
99’
No yellow card for Brahim after pulling Bruno and stopping an attack.
102’
No yellow card for Igamane after stopping Osayi’s attack.
103’
Referee blows against Bashiru for absolutely nothing.
115’
Clear foul on Osayi-Samuel completely overlooked.
Commentary: When every call goes against you, progressing with the ball becomes almost impossible.
Beyond the physical impact, such officiating affects players psychologically, disrupting rhythm, confidence, and decision-making.
This is why players, fans, and even other football nations are raising concerns.
African football deserves fair, neutral, and competent officiating — especially on the biggest stage.
