WAFCON Final Controversy: Demehin Breaks Silence on VAR Drama as CAF Sacks Referee Chief
Super Falcons defender, Oluwatosin Demehin, has finally opened up about the controversial VAR penalty decision that rocked the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
In what was a tense and emotionally charged moment, Nigeria were level 2-2 with hosts Morocco when Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa pointed to the spot, ruling that Demehin had handled the ball inside the box.
🗣️ “I was scared, but deep down I knew it wasn’t a penalty,” Demehin told BoldSports. “The ball touched my hand, yes, but the way I was positioned, it wasn’t unnatural.”
A VAR review led by Rwandan official Salima Mukansanga overturned the penalty decision — a call that proved pivotal.
Moments later, Jennifer Echegini scored a dramatic 88th-minute winner, sealing a thrilling comeback and handing the Super Falcons a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
📜 Morocco Lodges Complaint, CAF Sacks Referee Chief
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation responded to the reversed call with a formal complaint to CAF, citing multiple officiating irregularities, particularly the rescinded penalty.
In the aftermath, CAF has reportedly sacked its Director of Refereeing, Désiré Noumandiez Doué, even though he didn’t directly officiate the match. His involvement in referee appointments, however, made him a central figure in the controversy.
CAF’s move is seen as a response to mounting pressure to restore credibility and transparency in refereeing standards across the continent.
🗣️ Opinion: VAR Saved the Day, But CAF Has Work To Do
The drama at WAFCON shows that while VAR can correct officiating errors, it also amplifies the stakes — especially in high-profile matches. The Super Falcons benefitted from the correction, but CAF's referee appointment system clearly needs overhaul.
Demehin’s calm reflection shows the mental strength required at the top level. She knew it wasn’t a foul — but in that moment, the entire continent held its breath.
🏆 Match Recap:
🇲🇦 Morocco 2–3 Nigeria 🇳🇬
⚽ Falcons came back from 0–2 down
🧤 VAR overturned Morocco’s 81st-minute penalty
🎯 Echegini scored the 88th-minute winner
🏆 Nigeria lifts 10th WAFCON trophy
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💬 Do you think CAF did the right thing by sacking their Referee Director? And was the overturned penalty fair? Let’s talk below. 👇
