International Refereeing Team Set for FC Salzburg vs Real Madrid
The upcoming FIFA Club World Cup clash between FC Salzburg and Real Madrid isn't just a big deal for fans—it's also a showcase for international referee talent. On June 26, 2025, all eyes will be on a highly anticipated group-stage encounter. But before the first whistle, the focus shifts to the match officials, handpicked from several corners of the football world.
Dahane Beida from Mauritania will take charge as the main referee. His appointment reflects FIFA’s commitment to giving referees from emerging football nations the global spotlight. Beida, known among African football circles for his quick decisions and steady presence on the field, now faces one of the world’s most-watched club games. It's a step up from African Cup of Nations fixtures—here, the pressure is global.
Supporting him on the field are two assistant referees: Jerson Emiliano Dos Santos from Angola and Stephen Yiembe of Kenya. Both have carved out reputations across Africa’s top leagues and continental tournaments, and their selection signals a nod to their reliability in tight, high-stakes matches. Watching the sidelines will be fourth official Ma Ning, representing China, a country that’s eager to raise its profile in world football.
VAR Crew Reflects Football’s Global Reach
Off the pitch but just as crucial, the video assistant referee (VAR) team draws from yet another set of football powerhouses. Leading the tech side is Ivan Bebek of Croatia, a name that’s familiar to European club tournament fans. Croatian referees have a reputation for clear communication and quick interventions, which is essential when decisions need to be made in seconds.
The setup also features Hamza Al-Fariq from Morocco as assistant VAR and Bastian Dankert of Germany as support VAR. By bringing together perspectives from Morocco’s football culture and Germany’s renowned attention to refereeing details, FIFA is making sure every key moment gets more than just one pair of eyes. Dankert's experience in Bundesliga matches, environments known for their intensity and pace, will be particularly valuable during a fast, skilled game like Salzburg vs Real Madrid.
This eclectic mix of officials highlights FIFA’s push for diversity—not just among players and teams, but among those enforcing the rules. Each referee brings their own culture’s approach to decision-making, communication, and player management. With stakes as high as a spot in the Club World Cup’s knockout rounds, even a marginal call can change everything.
For fans, knowing such a wide range of officials is involved should give some comfort that every play will be watched from multiple angles and backgrounds. This kind of appointment isn’t just about fairness; it reflects the way football is truly global, both on the pitch and in the VAR booth. Expect the officials to play a key “invisible hand” as FC Salzburg and Real Madrid fight for advancement on June 26.
Write a comment