Experienced Asian Referee to Officiate Club World Cup Opener

On June 15, the FIFA Club World Cup will officially kick off in the United States. In the tournament’s opening match, attention will be focused not only on the star players but also on the referee overseeing the game.

According to the organizers’ official announcement, the first match between Inter Miami (USA) and Al Ahly (Egypt) will be officiated by experienced referee Alireza Faghani, originally from Iran and currently an Australian citizen.

A Renowned Figure on the Global Stage
Faghani is considered one of the most skilled and trusted referees in Asia. Throughout his career, he has officiated several high-profile international competitions, including two World Cups, the Olympic Games, the AFC Asian Cup, and other official FIFA tournaments.

His appointment for this match clearly reflects FIFA’s high level of trust in him. Being selected for the opening game is a great responsibility and honor.

Uzbek Referees Also at the Mundial
Notably, Uzbekistan’s football refereeing school is also represented at this tournament. According to the FIFA list, Ilgiz Tantashev, Andrey Tsapenko, and Timur Gainullin from Uzbekistan will serve at the Club World Cup.

This demonstrates that Uzbek refereeing is holding its own on the world stage.

High Interest Ahead of the Match
The match between Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, and Egypt’s top club Al Ahly is attracting great excitement from football fans. It marks the start of the tournament and stands as one of its first major events. The presence of a seasoned and impartial referee ensures a fair and balanced game.

Thus, it is a source of pride that representatives from Asia and Central Asia are playing active roles in this major football spectacle.