Former Sports Minister, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has lauded Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea, describing him as “the best” referee at the just-ended 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Laryea became the centre of attention during the tournament, particularly for his officiating in the semi-final clash between Nigeria and host nation Morocco.

However, he came under intense scrutiny from Nigeria, who deemed his officiating unfair following their penalty shootout defeat to the hosts.

Despite the criticism, the former lawmaker was convinced by Laryea’s performance and is hopeful of a World Cup inclusion for the match official.

“I am so proud as a Ghanaian because one Ghanaian in the middle distinguished himself so well,” he told JoyNews.

“The referee was excellent and I am sure FIFA would be considering him for the World Cup.

“Of all the matches that I’ve watched in the AFCON, I can tell you, not because I am bias as a Ghanaian, he is the best.

“His composure and positioning, I will give him 95 percent.”

Laryea also took charge of a Group stage match between Algeria and Burkina Faso and served as Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the quarter-final showdown between Morocco and Cameroon.

He has since returned to Ghana and is set to officiate upcoming Ghana Premier League matches.