Nigerian official Kasimu Abdulsalam has earned a spot on FIFA’s list of match officials for the U-17 World Cup in Qatar, even without the Golden Eaglets in the tournament.
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Nigerian referee Kasimu Abdulsalam has been selected by FIFA to officiate at the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, running from November 19 to December 13.
One Of Africa’s Four Centre Referees
Abdulsalam is among 81 match officials appointed for the tournament and is one of just four centre referees selected from Africa for the competition. Eight assistant referees from the continent were also included on FIFA’s list.
A Growing Reputation On The Continent
The young official has previously handled matches at the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations, including the 2023 and 2026 editions, and this latest call-up marks another significant milestone in his refereeing career.
A Tournament Without The Golden Eaglets
Despite Abdulsalam’s involvement, Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets will not be competing at the tournament, having failed to qualify for a second consecutive edition.
