Kenya is on the continental stage again as referee Stephen Yiembe earns a key VAR role in the AFCON 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal, a massive moment for Kenyan football officiating.
Kenyan football fans have something to smile about as referee Stephen Yiembe is set to officiate at the AFCON 2025 final, a high-stakes clash between hosts Morocco and defending champions Senegal.
The final will be played on Sunday night at the iconic Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, with millions across Africa watching.
Yiembe will serve on VAR duty, a role that places him right at the heart of crucial match decisions. His appointment is a major vote of confidence in Kenyan referees, who have steadily built a strong reputation on the continental stage.
The AFCON final is no ordinary match. Morocco are chasing only their second Africa Cup of Nations title, their first coming way back in 1976.
Playing at home brings massive support, but also intense pressure to finally deliver silverware in front of their fans.
Senegal, on the other hand, arrive with calm confidence, aiming to reclaim the trophy they won in 2021 and cement their status as one of Africa’s modern football powerhouses.
Yiembe’s rise at the tournament has been impressive. He has officiated several high-profile matches, including group-stage fixtures and knockout games, before being trusted with VAR responsibilities in the semi-finals.
His steady performances earned him a place among the nine officials selected for the final, a rare honour in African football.
The final will be handled by a strong officiating team led by Congolese referee Jean Jacques Ngambo Ndala, assisted by Guylain Bongele Ngila and Gradel Mwanya Mbilizi. South African referee Abongile Tom will head the VAR team alongside Yiembe, Pierre Atcho of Gabon, and Leticcia Viana.
Stephen Yiembe is one of four Kenyan referees selected for AFCON 2025, alongside Peter Waeru Kamaku, Dickens Mimisa, and Gilbert Cheruiyot.
Their collective presence at the tournament highlights Kenya’s growing influence in African football officiating.
For Kenyan fans, Yiembe’s appointment is more than just personal success. It is a proud moment for the country, proving that Kenyan referees can be trusted on Africa’s biggest football stage.
As Morocco and Senegal battle for continental glory, Kenya will quietly be part of history through the man behind the screen making the big calls.
