Derrick Kwatei Quartey Makes History as Ghana’s First FIFA Futsal Referee

GFA Celebrates Milestone Achievement and Sets Sights on Futsal Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers

Derrick Kwatei Quartey has made history by becoming Ghana’s inaugural FIFA Futsal Referee, as officially listed by FIFA for the year 2024. Having commenced his refereeing journey in 2011, Quartey, a graduate of Osudoku Senior High Technical School and Hampen State University, has played a pivotal role in the resurgence of Futsal Refereeing in Ghana. His outstanding performance in various courses, tests, and matches has earned him the privilege to officiate in CAF and FIFA Futsal competitions, as well as Futsal matches organized by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

Source of the main picture: Ghana Football Association (GFA)

The GFA, recognizing the significance of this achievement, extended congratulations to Referee Quartey and acknowledged the dedication of the Association’s Referees Department. GFA General Secretary Prosper Harrison Addo (Esq.) expressed optimism about the international opportunities this milestone would unlock for Ghanaian Futsal referees. He commended Mr. Alex Kotey, the Referees Manager, and the Futsal Referees Committees for their role in this accomplishment.

The elevation of Futsal officiating aligns with the GFA’s Strategic Objectives, endorsed by FIFA and the Executive Council of the Association. Ghana, spurred by a renewed focus on Futsal development, is gearing up for the 2024 Futsal Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The draw, conducted by the Confederation of African Football on December 23, 2023, revealed that Ghana will face Cote D’Ivoire in a bid to secure a spot in the continental showcase.

This marks Ghana’s second attempt to participate in the Futsal Africa Cup of Nations but their first attempt under the instruction of the association. An affiliate organisation entered a team in 1996, reflecting the country’s determined efforts to revive and popularize the sport. Over the past two years, the GFA has invested resources and funding to enhance awareness and competitiveness of Futsal nationwide. The upcoming qualifiers against Cote D’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) are scheduled for February 2024, with Ghana hosting the first leg in Accra from 2nd to 4th February, followed by the second leg in Abidjan, Ivory Coast,  from 9th to 11th February. The victor of the two-leg contest will earn the coveted qualification to the tournament.

Organ Donation

Futsal Focus is a supporter of Dáithí Mac Gabhann and his family’s campaign to raise awareness of Organ Donation. We encourage our readers to learn more about Organ Donation: https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/