Algerian Referees Ghorbal & Benbraham Selected for 2026 World Cup

Ghorbal, 40, has been an international referee since 2014. The Oran native has officiated several international competitions this year, including the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States last summer, 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, and CAF interclub competitions.

Joining Ghorbal as a match official representing the African continent are Jean-Jacques Ndala (DR Congo), Amin Omar (Egypt), Pierre Atcho (Gabon), and Dahane Beida (Mauritania).

Benbraham is one of three African VAR officials selected, alongside Mahmoud Achour (Egypt) and Letticia Viana (Eswatini).

Two Algerian assistant referees are also expected to join Ghorbal’s regular team, potentially increasing Algeria’s representation at the tournament.

This selection further solidifies the strong reputation of Algerian refereeing at both the African and global levels, a testament to Ghorbal’s impressive performances in recent editions of the Africa Cup of Nations and CAF interclub competitions. The World Cup represents the pinnacle of the sport, and these appointments highlight the growing influence of African officials on the world stage.

DZfoot