South African referee Badi Luxolo has been appointed to officiate the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I qualifier between Ghana and Mali.
The match is scheduled to take place at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 7 p.m.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has selected the 30-year-old Luxolo, who brings a dynamic presence to the centre of the pitch, supported by a seasoned officiating team from across the continent.
He will be assisted by Phatsoane Souru from Lesotho as Assistant Referee I, and fellow South African Cledwin Baloyi as Assistant Referee II.
Namibia’s Naftal Mweshitsama Negongo will serve as the fourth official, according to the referees’ appointment committee.
Oversight for the officiating crew will be provided by Guezzaz Mohammed of Morocco, who has been appointed as the Referee Assessor.
Meanwhile, Kachalla Babagana Kalli will serve as the Match Commissioner, ensuring all FIFA protocols are upheld.
Ghana will be aiming for a crucial victory to extend their lead in Group I, after Comoros narrowed the gap to just one point on Sunday, September 7, following their win over the Central African Republic (CAR).
The Black Stars currently sit atop the group with 16 points, followed closely by Comoros with 15 points.
Madagascar are third with 13 points, with Mali has 12 points, while CAR has 5 points, with Chad on only a point to round out the bottom of the standings.
Full Standing
