The Instagram account of Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea has been removed from the platform. This development follows his officiating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final match between Nigeria and Morocco, which sparked controversy among fans and players.
Tensions were high ahead of the game due to the rivalry between Ghana and Nigeria, and Nii Laryea’s nationality had raised concerns. During the match, he made several decisions that were questioned by many, including the issuance of a yellow card to Calvin Bassey, which resulted in a one-match ban for the player. Nigerian fans took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, and it appears that a large number of them reported Nii Laryea’s Instagram and Twitter accounts, leading to the removal of his Instagram page.
According to reports, Nigerian defender Bright Osayi-Samuel criticized Nii Laryea’s performance, stating that the referee made “very, very wrong decisions” during the game. While Osayi-Samuel acknowledged that the referee’s performance was not the sole reason for Nigeria’s loss, he expressed disappointment with the standard of refereeing in such a high-profile match.
The incident highlights the intense scrutiny that referees face in high-stakes international competitions. The Africa Cup of Nations is a premier tournament in African football, and the semi-final match between Nigeria and Morocco was closely watched by fans across the continent. The controversy surrounding Nii Laryea’s officiating has sparked a wider debate about refereeing standards and the need for transparency and accountability in the sport.
The removal of Nii Laryea’s Instagram page is a significant development, as it shows the power of social media in holding public figures accountable for their actions. As the football community continues to discuss the incident, it remains to be seen what steps will be taken to address the concerns raised by fans and players. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fair play and impartial refereeing in maintaining the integrity of the sport.
