Daniel Nii Laryea appointed to officiate Ghana’s Super Clash between Kotoko and Hearts

The build-up to Ghana’s eagerly awaited Super Clash between Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak on February 15 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium has received an extra boost with the announcement that seasoned international referee Daniel Nii Laryea will take charge of the match.

Laryea’s appointment underscores the significance of this fixture in Ghana’s Premier League calendar and reflects his reputation for fairness, composure, and strong game management.

Laryea has been a familiar figure in Ghana’s biggest domestic fixtures, including multiple Super Clash derbies between Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak over recent seasons, cementing his status as one of the country’s foremost referees.

His experience isn’t limited to domestic football: he officiated the 2021 Ghanaian FA Cup final between Hearts of Oak and Ashanti Gold, a high-pressure encounter that showcased his ability to handle intense atmospheres.

On the continental stage, Laryea has carved out a stellar résumé. He was the only Ghanaian referee selected for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Morocco, earning assignments that reflected the Confederation of African Football’s trust in his abilities.

During AFCON 2025, he officiated a group-stage match between Algeria and Burkina Faso and was subsequently entrusted with VAR duties for Morocco’s quarter-final clash with Cameroon, highlighting his versatility in both on-field and video assistant referee roles.

Laryea reached a historic milestone when he was appointed to referee the AFCON semi-final between hosts Morocco and Nigeria, the first Ghanaian to do so in over five decades, a testament to his elite status across the continent.

Supporting Laryea on February 15 will be assistants Paul Atimaka and Seth Abletor, fourth referee Nii-Cofie Gideon, and match commissioner Micheal Arthur Dadzie, with venue media operations overseen by Nathaniel Gyasi Adjei. Together, this experienced officiating team will ensure that the Super Clash is conducted with the highest standards of professionalism.

As the fervent fans of both clubs prepare to fill the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, the appointment of Daniel Nii Laryea brings added assurance that one of Ghana’s greatest football rivalries will be officiated with fairness, authority, and respect for the beautiful game.