Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea was greeted like a national hero upon his return home after officiating at the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The official, who was at the center of a major controversy, landed at Kotoka International Airport in Ghana to a warm and unexpected reception, a scene captured in a viral video.
A Warm Welcome Amidst Controversy
Daniel Laryea had just concluded his duties at AFCON 2026, where his performance in the semi-final match between Nigeria's Super Eagles and Morocco drew intense criticism, particularly from Nigerian fans. The backlash was so severe that Laryea reportedly deactivated his Instagram account. However, his arrival in Ghana on January 18, 2026, told a different story.
As he exited the airport, an excited woman immediately approached him and placed a stole in the Ghanaian national colours around his neck. He was then presented with a bouquet by a little girl, while a young boy gave him a drawing depicting Laryea in action during the contentious semi-final match.
Mixed Reactions Flood Social Media
The video of the reception, shared on TikTok by user @allstarblogg, quickly sparked a wave of mixed reactions online. Many Ghanaians celebrated his return with pride and emotion. One user, letloveleed19, commented, "I’m proud to be Ghanaian, the love among us is deep, tears flowing." Another, queen ama priscy, hailed him as "The only Ghanaian who made a country of 232 million shed tears uncontrollably."
However, the celebratory welcome was met with skepticism and criticism from others who viewed it through the lens of the match's outcome. A user named Chalzs remarked, "This reception seems like Ghana sent him on a mission that was accomplished. Very sad." Another, Ewane Edmond Elime, questioned the logic, asking, "Hahahaha are they welcoming him for helping them disqualify Nigeria??"
Laryea's Response to the Criticism
In the aftermath of the match, Daniel Laryea addressed the attacks on his officiating. In an interview also shared on TikTok, he was asked about specific incidents, including a potential penalty call in Nigeria's 18-yard box. Laryea defended his decisions, stating that he was simply doing his job as a referee and explained his rationale for not awarding the penalty.
The referee's return and the polarized reactions highlight the intense passions surrounding continental football and the often-scrutinized role of match officials. While he was celebrated at home, the event underscored the lingering tensions from a match that ended Nigeria's AFCON 2026 campaign.
