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The Digest:

Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed has been appointed to take charge of the decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final between Nigeria and DR Congo. The officiating team will feature a full North African contingent, bringing experienced oversight to a match where every decision will be scrutinized under immense pressure.

Key Points:
  • Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed will be the center referee for the crucial match.
  • He will be assisted by fellow Moroccans Mustapha Akarkad and Zakaria Bernissi.
  • Tunisian official Mahrez El Malki will serve as the fourth official.
  • The VAR team will be led by Algeria's Lahlou Benbraham and Tunisia's Haitham Guirat.
  • Jayed is familiar with the Super Eagles, having officiated their 2-0 win over Rwanda in March.
  • The winner of this match advances to the Intercontinental playoffs for the 2026 World Cup.
  • The match is scheduled to be held on Sunday.
In a game where national dreams hang in the balance, the whistle of a neutral official becomes the anchor in a storm of passion, expectation, and high-stakes football.

Sources: Vanguard News