Benin's handball referees, Ulrich Sahgui and Safiou Berebere, have made a name for themselves at the 2026 African Cups of Nations for junior and cadet handball in Abidjan. The duo, appointed by the African Handball Confederation (CAHB), successfully officiated five matches each in both the junior and cadet tournaments, showcasing their skills and expertise on the continental stage. This experience has provided them with valuable insights and exposure to the highest levels of handball competition. Their performances have earned them recognition and respect from the handball community.
The junior tournament saw the Beninese pair officiate matches between top African teams, including Egypt vs. DR Congo, Zimbabwe vs. Guinea, Algeria vs. Angola, Kenya vs. Cameroon, and Madagascar vs. Congo. Their expertise and impartiality were on full display as they navigated the intense competition. Similarly, in the cadet tournament, Sahgui and Berebere refereed matches between prominent teams such as Egypt vs. Congo, Burundi vs. Guinea, Zambia vs. Burundi, Congo vs. Algeria, and Côte d'Ivoire vs. Rwanda. Their consistent and accurate officiating earned them praise from teams and officials alike.
The African Handball Confederation (CAHB) selected Sahgui and Berebere to officiate in both tournaments, a testament to their growing reputation in the handball world. The duo's participation in these high-profile events has provided them with a platform to gauge their performance against the best teams and officials in Africa. This experience will undoubtedly contribute to their growth and development as referees, enabling them to compete at even higher levels in the future.
Upon reflection, Sahgui and Berebere expressed their satisfaction with the tournament experience. They appreciated the opportunity to participate in such a prestigious event, citing the high level of competition and the chance to improve their skills. The Beninese referees praised the organization of the tournament, highlighting the excellent working conditions and arrangements made for the referees. Their positive experience will undoubtedly motivate them to strive for excellence in their future endeavors.
The success of Sahgui and Berebere at the 2026 African Cups of Nations is a significant milestone for Benin's handball community. Their achievements demonstrate the country's growing presence in the sport and its potential to produce top-class officials. As they continue to develop their skills and gain more experience, the Beninese duo is likely to become prominent figures in international handball, inspiring a new generation of referees and players from their country.
Sahgui and Berebere's participation in the tournament aligns with their goal of progressing to the international level. They recognize that competing at the highest levels allows them to measure their performance against the best and continue improving according to the standards set by the International Handball Federation (IHF). Their experience in Abidjan has provided them with a solid foundation for future growth and development.
As Benin's handball community celebrates the success of its referees, Sahgui and Berebere look forward to future challenges and opportunities. Their impressive performances in Abidjan have set a high standard for themselves and their peers, demonstrating that with dedication and hard work, Benin's handball officials can compete with the best in the world. The duo's achievement serves as a motivation for young referees and players in Benin to strive for excellence and aim for the highest levels of competition.
Key points
- Benin's Ulrich Sahgui and Safiou Berebere officiated five matches each in junior and cadet handball tournaments at the 2026 African Cups of Nations in Abidjan.
