The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed a team of Ugandan officials to handle the first-leg encounter between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria in the qualifiers for the 2028 Olympic Games.

Duula Joshua has been named as the centre referee for the crucial qualifying fixture, while compatriots Brianson Musisi and Katerega Ashiraf will serve as the first and second assistant referees, respectively.

William Oloya completes the Ugandan officiating team as the fourth official.

The appointments were announced ahead of the first-leg meeting between the two countries, with CAF selecting officials from Uganda to oversee proceedings on the pitch.

CAF names full officiating team

According to the appointments, Joshua will be responsible for enforcing the rules of the game and managing the match, assisted by Musisi and Ashiraf, who will support him in making key decisions during the encounter.

Oloya will serve as the fourth official, with responsibilities that include assisting the referee team with match administration and other duties around the technical areas.

Meanwhile, CAF has appointed Jean Marie Koyakobo of the Central African Republic as the match commissioner for the fixture.

Another official from the Central African Republic, identified as Letokouzou, has been named as the referee assessor.

Nigeria begin Olympic qualification campaign

The first-leg encounter represents an important stage in the qualification process for the 2028 Olympic Games, as Nigeria and DR Congo seek to advance in the race for a place at the football tournament.

The appointment of the match officials is part of CAF’s preparations for the fixture, which will see both countries compete for an advantage ahead of the return leg.

Nigeria will be hoping to secure a positive result against their Congolese opponents as they pursue qualification for the Olympic football competition.

The appointed officials are expected to ensure that the encounter is conducted in accordance with the Laws of the Game.