The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has formally chosen Liberian referee Emmanuel Mensah to officiate over the renowned 2025 CAF U-20 Championship in Egypt. His presence among Africa’s finest match officials not only honors his own successes but also highlights a proud time for Liberia’s developing football scene.

A Career Built on Dedication and Integrity

From Local Pitches to the International Stage

Becoming a FIFA-badged referee is not at all easy. For Liberian referee Emmanuel Mensah, it meant years of relentless effort, refereeing in grassroots competitions, and gradually rising the ranks. His reputation was built under close examination—managing games in high-pressure settings all throughout Liberia and the West African region.

His badge from FIFA wasn’t handed out overnight. Consistent professionalism, a thorough knowledge of the game, and a dedication to fair play helped to earn it. Mensah will now bring this knowledge into one of Africa’s most famous youth competitions.

About the 2025 CAF U-20 Tournament

A Platform for Talent—On and Off the Pitch

Running from April 27 to May 18, 2025, the CAF U-20 Tournament is more than a football competition. It’s a development platform for emerging stars—players and referees alike. For young athletes, it’s a chance to catch the eyes of European scouts. For match officials, it’s a career-defining proving ground.

This year’s tournament brings together elite match officials from across the continent. Mensah’s inclusion places him in the company of respected referees such as:

• Houssam Benyahia (Algeria)

• Kokora Hugues Modest Richard (Côte d’Ivoire)

• Abdou Abdel Mefire (Cameroon)

• Dickens Mimisia Myagorowa (Kenya)

These names reflect not just individual talent but CAF’s push for diverse regional representation in officiating.

CAF’s Vision for Refereeing Development

Equal Investment in Players and Officials

The Confederation of African Football has made major strides in professionalizing the officiating landscape. In recent years, CAF has:

• Introduced VAR training programs

• Hosted referee development workshops

• Expanded referee assessments using performance data tools

• Promoted gender inclusion in officiating

Referees like Mensah are part of this wave of progress—elevated based on merit and supported by structured training.

CAF’s Appointment of Assistant Referees and VAR Specialists

CAF’s appointment also included assistant referees and VAR specialists such as:

• Abigene Ndong Amos (Gabon)

• Carine Fomo Atezambong (Cameroon)

• Fanta Kone Drissa (Mali)

• Maria Rivet Packita (Mauritius)

• Salima Mukansanga (Rwanda) – a history-making female official

These appointments reinforce CAF’s commitment to both excellence and inclusivity.

Mensah’s Selection: What It Means for Liberia

A Symbol of Growth for Liberian Football

This selection isn’t just an individual honor—it’s a national milestone. Liberia is actively working to strengthen its football ecosystem, and having a FIFA-recognized referee selected for a continental tournament is a powerful statement.

Mensah represents:

• The success of referee training programs by the Liberia Football Association (LFA)

• The rising international credibility of Liberian match officials

• A growing belief in equal opportunity and merit-based selection in African football

It sends a message to aspiring referees across Liberia: With hard work and dedication, the global stage is within reach.

Liberia’s Referee Training Pipeline

Investing in the Future of the Whistle

The Liberia Football Association has made concrete moves to nurture its referee talent pool. Initiatives include:

• Grassroots certification courses for youth aged 12–23

• Regular workshops and mentorship programs run by veteran officials

• Access to digital training tools and simulation exercises

Mensah’s journey mirrors the impact of these initiatives. He’s not an isolated success—he’s a proof of concept that structured development works.

The Role of Referees in Modern Football

Unsung Heroes of the Game

While goals and tactics often steal headlines, the referee’s role in maintaining fairness and flow is paramount. At tournaments like the CAF U-20:

• Every decision can shape a player’s future.

• Officials face the same pressure as athletes.

• Technology like VAR adds complexity—but also credibility.

Mensah’s calm demeanor and ability to manage tense moments with clarity make him an ideal fit for this environment.

Spotlight on African Refereeing Excellence

Breaking Barriers and Setting Standards

African referees are no longer on the periphery of global football. In recent years:

• Victor Gomes (South Africa) officiated at the FIFA World Cup.

• Bamlak Tessema (Ethiopia) has become a staple at CAF Champions League finals.

• Salima Mukansanga (Rwanda) made history as the first woman to referee at the men’s AFCON and World Cup.

Mensah now joins this prestigious list, representing Liberia’s debut on a much larger stage.

Quotes & Reactions

Voices from the Football Community

Joseph Kollie, Chairperson of the LFA Referee Committee, shared:

“Emmanuel’s selection is a win for the entire country. He’s an example of how discipline and learning can take you far.”

Stephen Kafi, referee instructor:

“We’ve always believed in his potential. It’s rewarding to see international institutions recognize what we’ve nurtured at home.”

Such praise highlights that Mensah’s success is shared by those who mentored and believed in him.

What’s Next for Emmanuel Mensah?

Opportunities Beyond the CAF U-20

Performing well at the CAF U-20 could unlock:

• Selection for AFCON senior tournaments

• Invitations to World Cup Qualifiers

• International friendlies and club competitions across Africa

Mensah will also serve as an inspiration for future referees, many of whom will now believe a FIFA badge is more than just a dream.

How to Become a FIFA-Listed Referee in Liberia

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Enroll in LFA-approved Referee Courses
   Get certified at the grassroots level and participate in regular evaluations.

2. Officiate Local Matches
   Gain experience by refereeing district and county league games.

3. Pass Physical & Technical Tests
   FIFA requires high fitness levels and a strong command of the rules.

4. Attend CAF/FIFA Workshops
   Engage in seminars that teach advanced officiating techniques.

5. Earn Recommendations
   Positive match reports and mentoring can help push you up the ladder.

6. Get Nominated for International Badging
   Once all criteria are met, the LFA can submit your name for FIFA evaluation.

Why Mensah Matters

Liberian referee Emmanuel Mensah’s story is more than just a personal triumph—it’s a narrative of national progress. It reflects years of effort, investment, and quiet excellence. As he blows the whistle at the CAF U-20 Tournament, he carries with him the hopes of a football-loving nation eager to rise on the continental stage.