Namibian referee Antsino is set to make history after being appointed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to officiate the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2024.
Antsino becomes the first Namibian official to referee a WAFCON final, capping off a tournament in which she has been widely praised for her steady leadership, consistency, and composed match management.
“I didn’t expect this at all — I’m still in shock,” Antsino said. “But with God, all things are possible. WAFCON is a major competition, and the expectations are huge. We know the whole continent will be watching, so we must give it everything we’ve got.”
Having impressed CAF’s Technical and Refereeing Committee with her performances throughout the tournament, Antsino believes this moment is not just a reward, but a responsibility. “I know I have the talent and the potential,” she added. “They’ve seen what I can do — now it’s my opportunity to prove it on the biggest stage.”
Antsino will be supported by a high-caliber team of assistant referees: Alice Umutesi of Rwanda as Assistant Referee 1, and Tabara Mbodji of Senegal as Assistant Referee 2. Both have earned praise for their sharp decision-making and composure during key matches.
In the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) booth, Rwanda’s Salima Mukansanga, a trailblazer in global football officiating, will serve as the VAR.
Mukansanga made history as the first woman to officiate at the men’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2022 and brings a wealth of experience from the FIFA Women’s World Cups and the Olympics.
She will be joined by Letticia Viana of Eswatini as Assistant VAR 1 and Diana Chikotesha of Zambia as Assistant VAR 2.
Antsino’s selection follows a string of standout performances, including several high-stakes matches where her fitness, tactical awareness, and match control were on full display. CAF’s Head of Refereeing, Desire Noumandiez Doue, said the decision was made purely on merit.
“Their appointment was based on consistent quality and performance,” he said. “They’ve proven themselves through hard work, both in training and during matches. We’ve closely monitored Antsino over the past three years, and she has shown all the qualities we look for. She’s a strong candidate for future FIFA Women’s World Cups.”
Doue emphasized the significance of preparing referees not just physically, but mentally. “A final is never just another match. We ensure our referees are ready in every way. We remind them: you’re carrying the hopes of millions — go out there and give your very best.”
The appointment of an all-female officiating team for the final also highlights CAF’s commitment to growing women’s football and empowering women at all levels of the game.
For Antsino, the moment is deeply personal and potentially transformative for others. “I know people back home will be proud,” she said. “In Namibia, we support each other. I hope this achievement inspires others — especially young girls. Work hard, stay disciplined, stay focused, and always pray. Nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams.”
The TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2024 Final between Nigeria and hosts Morocco will take place on Saturday, July 26, at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat — with Antsino and her team making history from the first whistle.