Chikotesha Makes AFCON History as First Female On-Pitch Official in Men’s Final
Zambian assistant referee Diana Chikotesha has etched her name in history by becoming the first female on-pitch match official to feature in a men’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. Chikotesha‘s groundbreaking achievement took place during the final match between Ivory Coast and Nigeria, where she put in a faultless display as an assistant referee.
Chikotesha, who has honed her skills through numerous COSAFA tournaments, showcased her expertise during the tense showdown in Abidjan, as Ivory Coast secured a 2-1 victory over Nigeria.
At 35 years old, Chikotesha‘s remarkable performance is likely just the beginning of further assignments in men’s football. She has previously officiated at the African Nations Championship finals and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, demonstrating her proficiency across various levels of the game.
Joining Chikotesha on the pitch was Jerson dos Santos from Angola, forming a COSAFA double-act in the Cup of Nations finals, highlighting the quality of match officials developed in the region.
In the VAR room, Maria Rivet from Mauritius played a pivotal role, contributing to the seamless officiating of the prestigious final match.
The referee in the middle, Dahane Beida from Mauritania, led the officiating team, with another female official, Bouchra Karboubi from Morocco, serving as the fourth official, further underscoring the diversity and inclusivity in African football officiating.
