BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawian referee Godfrey Nkhakananga has been handed a major international assignment as FIFA has appointed him to officiate a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G qualifier between Somalia and Algeria scheduled for 9 October 2025 at the Grand Complex Miloud Hadefi Stadium in Oran Algeria.
Nkhakananga will be in charge of the match alongside his assistant referees Clemence Kanduku and Pondamali Tembo who are also from Malawi.
The trio will represent the country on one of the biggest football stages as teams continue their battle for a place at the next World Cup.
This appointment marks another milestone in Nkhakananga’s growing refereeing career.
Just last month he officiated at the COSAFA Under 17 Boys’ Championship in Zimbabwe where his performance was commended by regional football officials.
He was also on duty during the CAF Champions League preliminary round clash between Orlando Pirates of South Africa and Lioli FC of Lesotho on 20 September 2025 which was regarded as a high profile fixture in African club football.
For Malawi football this assignment reflects recognition from FIFA that the country has referees capable of handling top level matches.
It also serves as an inspiration to young referees who are striving to reach the international stage.
Nkhakananga has steadily risen through the refereeing ranks both locally and internationally.
His involvement in CAF and COSAFA competitions has built his reputation as a reliable official trusted to manage tense and competitive matches.
Algeria currently regarded as one of the strongest teams in Africa will be looking to secure maximum points in front of home fans while Somalia will be aiming for an upset in their pursuit of World Cup qualification.
This makes the officiating team’s role even more critical.
The match is expected to attract a large crowd in Oran and will be broadcast across several platforms giving Nkhakananga and his team a chance to showcase Malawian refereeing talent to a wide audience.
As World Cup qualifiers intensify across Africa the appointment of Malawian referees to such matches demonstrates the confidence that FIFA has in their professionalism and competence.
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