Senegalese Diatta to handle Ghana-Niger game

Senegalese referee Badara Diatta will direct affairs from the middle during the Ghana-Niger Group B clash on Monday in Port Elizabeth.

Diatta, 44, a veteran of four Africa Cup of Nations; 2006 (Egypt), 2008 (Ghana), 2010 (Angola) and 2012 (Gabon and Equatorial Guinea) is probably making his last appearance at the flagship African football tournament.

A teacher by profession, he is a member of the CAF Elite Referees Panel and handled the final game involving Cote d’Ivoire and Zambia at the last tournament in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.

The Senegalese was in charge of the Black Stars' 7-0 triumph over Lesotho during the infamous 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Baba Yara Stadium last September characterised by long hold-up due to power failure.

Information gathered by GNA Sports indicates that he will be assisted by compatriot Camara Djibril and Mozambican Arsenio Marengula with Rajindraparsad Seechurn of Mauritius serving as the fourth official.

The Stars need at least a point to book their place at the quarter final.