ZIMBABWE’s top referee, Brighton Chimene, continues to lead the way after being appointed to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier between South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, set for September 5, at the National Stadium in Juba.

Chimene is currently officiating at the African Nations Championship (CHAN), which is being co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

On Wednesday, he was in charge of the encounter between Senegal and Sudan, which ended in a goalless draw.

For the World Cup Qualifier, Chimene will be assisted by Luckson Mhara and Edgar Rumeck, with Lawrence Zimondi appointed as the fourth official.

The four-time Referee of the Year has been described as a shining beacon at a time when local match officials are under scrutiny for poor decisions.