Osayi-Samuel decries poor officiating in Nigeria’s AFCON loss

Super Eagles right-full back, Bright Osayi-Samuel has decried poor officiating in Nigeria’s 2-4 loss on penalties to hosts Morocco in the semifinals of the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

At the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium on Wednesday, Morrocco put a dent to Nigeria’s unscathed run in the tournament as both teams could not find the back of the net in120 minutes.

After the game, Osayi-Samuel, in an interview noted that the referee made numerous unfair calls.

“It was very painful to lose. I think we played well. The back four was amazing and I am proud of the team.

“The manager and board members came down to say they are proud of the team. It is painful that we lost on penalties—which is about luck.

“One thing I would say is that the referee was appalling. I am not saying that is the reason we lost, but (he) was making very wrong decisions.

“It is painful to see that we have such referee in big games like today. However, I wish Morrocco all the best,’’ Osayi-Sameul added.

In the same vein, a Nigerian actor, Pere Egbi, on his X account, lambasted referees in AFCON, alleging unprofessionalism while urging CAF to henceforth invite officials outside the continent.

“AFCON should never have referees from Africa officiating its games again,’’ he said.

The loss means Nigeria will face Egypt for the third-place finish on Saturday while hosts Morocco will take on Senegal in the final game on Sunday. (NAN).

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