There is a nickname that follows Antsino Twanyanyukwa wherever she referees; “Di Maria.“ She earned it during her playing days for her pace and style of play. Today, however, it is not her footwork that captures attention but her calm authority, composure, and consistency on the pitch that have established her as one of Africa’s most respected female match officials.
The Namibian referee returns for her third Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where she will officiate Cameroon’s Group D opener against Mali on 29 July at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. It is a fixture Cameroon will approach with confidence, having remained unbeaten in their previous eight meetings with Mali.
Twanyanyukwa’s rise through the ranks has been remarkable. In July 2025, she made history as the first Namibian referee to officiate a WAFCON final, taking charge of the thrilling championship match between Morocco and Nigeria, which Nigeria won 3-2 after a fierce contest.
Reflecting on that historic appointment, she admitted the honour came as a surprise.
“I didn’t expect it and I was in shock, but with faith, anything is possible. It was an intense match because both teams were equally good and competitive, but I managed to handle the match.”
From officiating local league matches in Namibia to COSAFA tournaments, the CAF Women’s Champions League, FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers and now a third WAFCON appearance, Twanyanyukwa’s career has been defined by steady progress, resilience and excellence.
With every major assignment, she edges closer to another dream—officiating at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, a milestone she hopes will come sooner rather than later.
“I’m really excited about what lies ahead. Officiating at the FIFA Women’s World Cup has always been one of my biggest dreams, and I believe I’m moving in the right direction. Every match is an opportunity to learn, improve and prove myself. If that opportunity comes, I’ll be ready to represent Namibia and Africa with pride.”
