Senegal’s sole representative in CAF U17 referee training camp

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the list of referees selected for the preparatory stage ahead of the upcoming 2025 African Nations Cup U17, a crucial step before finalizing the officials for the tournament set to take place in Morocco from 13 May to 2 June.

In this pre-selection, Senegal will have a single representative: El Hadj Amadou Sy. Following this training camp, the CAF will determine the final list of referees who will officiate during the U17 CAN in Morocco. First appointed as a FIFA international referee in 2019, El Hadj Amadou Sy continues to solidify his rising career. The Saint-Louis native began his officiating journey in local “navétanes” competitions, starting in youth categories before steadily climbing the ranks through senior levels and establishing himself in Senegal’s professional league.

International experience and continental ambitions

Known for his presence at major continental tournaments, Sy participated in the 2023 U20 CAN and the most recent U17 CAN, where he was among the selected officials. In past African competitions, Senegal was often represented by multiple referees or entire Senegalese trios. This year, Sy will carry the national colors alone during this preparatory phase, with the goal of making the final list and potentially representing Senegal in the tournament, where the national U17 team will also compete.

Top countries with multiple referees in the pre-selection

Notable nations with the highest representation in this pre-selection include Algeria, Cameroon, the DR Congo, Morocco, Zambia, and South Africa, each contributing three referees. Other countries like Tunisia, Mali, Nigeria, and Egypt have two representatives in the list.