Thursday 8 April 2021

Europa League 2020/21 - Quarterfinals - Referee Appointments (I)

UEFA Referees Committee has chosen the following officials to handle 2020-21 Europa League's Quarterfinals  first legs.


8 April 2021

21:00 CET - Granada (Estadio Municipal Nuevo Los Cármenes)
Granada CF (ESP) - Manchester United FC (ENG)
Referee: Artur Dias (POR)
Assistant Referee 1: Rui Tavares (POR)
Assistant Referee 2: Paulo Soares (POR)
Fourth Official: Tiago Martins (POR)
Video Assistant Referee: João Pinheiro (POR)
Assistant Video Assistant Referee: Luis Godinho (POR)
UEFA Referee Observer: Nikolai Levnikov (RUS) 
UEFA Delegate: Róbert Agnarsson (ISL)

21:00 CET - London (Arsenal Stadium)
Arsenal FC (ENG) - SK Slavia Praha (CZE)
Referee: Andreas Ekberg (SWE) 
Assistant Referee 1: Mehmet Culum (SWE)
Assistant Referee 2: Stefan Hallberg (SWE)
Fourth Official: Mattias Gestranius (FIN)
Video Assistant Referee: Juan Martínez Munuera (ESP)
Assistant Video Assistant Referee: Guillermo Cuadra Fernández (ESP)
UEFA Referee Observer: Hugh Dallas (SCO)
UEFA Delegate: Eugène Westerink (NED)

21:00 CET - Zagreb (Stadion Maksimir)
GNK Dinamo (CRO) - Villarreal CF (ESP)
Referee: Daniel Siebert (GER)
Assistant Referee 1: Jan Seidel (GER)
Assistant Referee 2: Rafael Foltyn (GER) 
Fourth Official: Willy Delajod (FRA) 
Video Assistant Referee: Christian Dingert (GER)
Assistant Video Assistant Referee: Bibiana Steinhaus (GER)
UEFA Referee Observer: Vladimir Šajn (SVN)
UEFA Delegate: Jean Paul Mievis (BEL)

21:00 CET - Amsterdam (Johan Cruijff ArenA)
AFC Ajax (NED) - AS Roma (ITA)
Referee: Sergei Karasev (RUS)
Assistant Referee 1: Igor Demeshko (RUS)
Assistant Referee 2: Maksim Gavrilin (RUS)
Fourth Official: Aleksei Kulbakov (BLR)
Video Assistant Referee: Vitali Meshkov (RUS)
Assistant Video Assistant Referee: Sergei Ivanov (RUS)
UEFA Referee Observer: Marc Batta (FRA) 
UEFA Delegate: Scott Struthers (SCO)

196 comments:

  1. Wow, unexpected to me Siebert and Ekberg; it seems that some first group are performing better than elites ones. Good to see Gestranius as 4th

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  2. Dias almost assured a place at Euros. Last chance for Karasev to impress and get his place. Ekberg elite in June, possibly a place at Euros to represent Scandinavia? (would be historic to have a 1st at Euros), Siebert could replace Zwayer or Aytekin in Elite?

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    Replies
    1. Il remplace Aytekin l'année prochaine

      Delete
  3. Wow. Gozubuyuk, Guida, Frappart and Zwayer for the returns, since performance principle after reading Karasevs name doesnt count anymore? Anyhow without being sarcastic any longer... I hope everyone will do well. Congratz to Siebert and Ekberg

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  4. German with four elite referees and only one appointed, while at the same time they appoint German only first category referee. I guess Siebert really impressed in his previous matches.

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    Replies
    1. We all know that Aytekin unfortunately is only Elite on paper, Zwayer is performance wise below Elite level, and Brych will most likely be gone after euro. So somehow only Stieler remains then. In this reasoning another german Elite is maybe "needed"

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    2. brych and stieler are in madrid today. aytekin just had international comeback in israel-scotland last week. i think too early for knockout-stages. zwayer maybe next week. also that FO is from france maybe shows that all german refs are appointed or they dont have anyone more available, due to various reasons...

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  5. Soares Dias appointment well deserved. Ekberg unexpected, but not undeserved imo.

    But then the other two. I'm very surprised by Siebert. He wasn't bad in previous rounds but not too convincing either. With a lot of Elite referees available I don't think this appointment fits.

    But it's always a better appointment than Karasev's. I believe Ajax-Roma will be the closest clash and the match deserves a high profile elite referee like Taylor, Oliver or Del Cerro Grande. Karasev has had so many unconvincing performances this season... Not even in terms of presence and personality, but in terms of bad foul detection and making wrong decisions. I just don't get this appointment at all, but let's hope he does well, for the sake of this important match.

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  6. Some people reporting that Ekberg could be at EURO despite of a missed promotion to Elite can be right. Indeed, I didn't remember a so long and deep observation of a Category 1 referee, this is lasting by years. I would say that a spot at least as fourth official could be sure for the Swedish. More than big trust by committee on him, and then promotion could follow immediately after EURO. I don't find other explanations for his frequent and big assignments.
    On the other hand, very weird management of German referees, it is sure that committee liked Siebert in his previous games, but then why not a chance for Stieler, before? It seems as at moment only Brych is the German sure name for EURO 2020 and I would exclude Stieler as well. But some choices must be done, absolutely nosense to keep names like Aytekin and Zwayer in Elite if this is the consideration by committee. After Brych retirement, we will know more...
    About Dias and Karasev, another confirmation that both will attend EURO, overall deserved for the Portuguese, not so much for the Russian, but he is always getting appointments. I really don't like that.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Regarding Stieler, it's still possible that he gets a EL QF or even SF. With no German teams, there are many options.
      We don't really know how UEFA evaluated his CL R16 match, but I think the majority opinion here thought, it was OK - so he should not be downgraded too much by that.

      I agree with the rest. Karasev should be quite sure now for EURO, if he doesn't perform too badly on Thursday.

      Delete
  7. Very risky appointment of Siebert by UEFA and Rosetti.

    This match will be hot.Two Southern European teams, the Spaniard and the Croatian are popular for their passion.
    After Napoli-Granada we know that Siebert failed with his passive way of communicating.
    Even Felix Brych had problems with acceptance of Croatian players in Zagreb-Shakthar (many difficult situations and much protests).
    Dangerous appointment!

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    Replies
    1. maybe uefa commission and referee observer saw it differently? but it are those games where you grow and are forced to adapt and improvise. i think this is a psychological test to see if he is able to manage it and if he has learned from the match in napoli...

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  8. We don't know what happens to Zwayer. Perhaps he was replaced by Aytekin in the World Cup qualifying game, because the assistant referees were Zwayer's. On the other hand, it seems that Stieler did not like Rosetti at Atalanta-Real Madrid. It is a mystery who will be the second German in the Euro.

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  9. *Rosetti didn't like Stieler's performance

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  10. Very interesting set of appointments. For me one name is a bit weird to see. How Willy Delajod got to Siebert's team? Why not Letexier then who got some special focus from commitee recently? Or maybe Siebert and the german crew is replacement for Turpin?

    Otherwise great to see both Ekberg and Siebert again.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Indeed, Delajod seems a strange choice.
      It would be understandable, that UEFA didn't want a German (higher ranked) Elite referee as 4th, but at least a First Group 4th official in the QFs. However, Delajod is a Second Group referee - then they could also have chosen Dankert.
      A replacement for Turpin (or even for Letexier?) could be indeed an explanation, but so far only a vague guess.
      Of course, also travel restrictions could explain some "weird" choices.

      Delete
    2. Maybe Delajod is simply a replacement for a German 4th official.
      This could be the reason why there is a 2nd group referee as 4th official in a EL QF.

      Delete
    3. Clément Turpin has a match on Friday, FC Metz – LOSC. Letexier was planned but replaced for today Coupe de France match Monaco - Metz by Jérémie Pignard.

      Delete
  11. Four interesting appointments!

    I find it tricky to say that Soares Dias' inset is totally deserved: he was very close to losing control of his Roma - Shakhtar game in the last round. On the other hand, he actually showed strong management skills to ensure proceedings didn't get any more out of hand. Overall decent appointment on merit, in the bigger picture anyway (EURO - safe).

    I actually think both Ekberg and Siebert's appointments as 1st Cats. are kind of the only logical consequence of their R16 games - ref from Sweden was very quiet in Villarreal and the German did a solid job in Olympiakós - Arsenal, whilst leaving smaller some doubts. Aytekin will surely be replaced by Siebert in the summer; personally I don't see Ekberg at the EURO at all (in the middle anyway).

    And finally, Karasëv. The level he displayed in Man City - Gladbach was some way off a CL-KO level IMO (technical accuracy, manner) but I suppose nobody really cares about that, everything went okay in the most basic sense. Is this a final test for the EURO, or is his place not yet safe?

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    1. Karasev has to show a good level now I think. As said, City - Gladbach was not that convincing and he completely messed up Germany - North Macedonia last week. If he doesn't do a good job again Thursday, EURO will be in danger for him I think.

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    2. Yesterday someone said the right thing about Daniel Sibert on thursday..wich no one believed/could think of before... i realy start to get curious now who that is.... he/she must have a close contact with Siebert.

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    3. Are you surprised? Some of readers here are even the referees themselves.

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    4. No just Curious iff you read my post well!

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    5. If Euro will still be played across multiple countries, UEFA will need more referees than usual due to (1) travel restrictions between countries and (2) possible replacements due to Covid. The situation is different than if Euro will be played in only one country.

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  12. I think that the committee is not certain about Ekberg. He gets a 3rd committee member on his last 4 matches. I don't remember a similar case in the recent years.

    Karasev's and Dias appointments suggest that both will go to Euro. I have my doubts about the Russian but it seems that the committee didn't have any alternative.

    Finally about Siebert. I think that he is being pushed in order to replece Aytekin. But IMO it's too soon (as he showed at Olympiakos - Arsenal).

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  13. Finally... Skomina will be back!!!!!!

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  14. Russian Karasev has been definitively defined
    very important match, everything shows that he's being counted for
    Euro

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  15. Who do you expect for El Clásico?

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    Replies
    1. Sánchez Martínez +1.

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    2. Lahoz confirmed for it I thought

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    3. With Mateu Lahoz being strong candidate for Champions League final my guess would be Lahoz for El Clasico.

      Delete
  16. OT - Danny Makkelie seems to have replaced his AR2, after the game in Belgrade Serbia-Portugal. He was initially appointed for 2nd division game last Friday, FC Volendam-Cambuur, with AR1 Steegstra and AR2 Jan de Vries. Eventually he was removed from that match to referee FC Emmen-RKC Waalwijk in Dutch Eredivisie. AR1 was De Vries AR2 was Honig.
    Makkelie is now appointed for this weekend FC Utrecht-Feyenoord with AR1 Steegstra and AR2 De Vries, while Diks is now for consecutive matches appointed in another team.
    Interesting to see how this will develop in the final stages of CL and EL, and especially Euro.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Mario Diks is from Leeuwarden, so I can understand he was not appointed in FC Volendam - Cambuur. However it indeed is strange he's not with Makkelie in FC Utrecht - Feyenoord.
      Diks used to be Makkelie's AR1 before his injury begin this year. Now he seems to be replaced from the team. That's pretty harsh.

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    2. I took a look at recent appointments nationally and internationally and I notice that Diks and Steegsta had already changed positions during winter break. Perhaps things have not been going well for some time. Because I cannot imagine that someone will be replaced after 1 major mistake. So there may be more reasons that led to this decision.

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    3. With the assistant of Hategan (autograph) and Hauge (Barcelona shirt) as example, referees has to be strong in their teams towards assistants and fourth officials. In the end they are responsible for their decisions and behaviour on and off the pitch. With this major incident tonight, and in Paris as well, I am afraid Hategan lost his ticket for the Euro. Thanks to his assistant!

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    4. Either that or he goes with another AR. The image of neutrality is important. Referees must be seen as officials, not fans.

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    5. I would hate to see hategan miss Euro. I reckon he might just go with another AR

      Delete
  17. An example of Brian Hall's "modern CONCACAF way" of officiating.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9e-ccIy37U

    The continual downward spiral of refereeing in CONCACAF.
    Referee's acting in an unprofessional manner either by word or action.
    An inconsistent VAR program that that leaves more questions than answers.

    This "Sheriff" has finally realized that he no longer gets any enjoyment from watching and/or commenting on any football referee related issues (good or bad). The only referee enjoyment than remains for me is simply focusing on doing what I am able to do on a pitch.

    To those with whom I butted heads with over the years. Just know that I may not have always agreed with you, but that I did respect your right to have opposing opinions. Many will rejoice upon reading this. To you all, I wish nothing but the best in life and in your individual future endeavors.
    To the Blog Administrators I say "THANK YOU" for doing what you do. I realize and understand that it's not easy dealing with so many differing strong opinions and good/poor attitudes.

    Be Blessed,
    "Sheriff" out!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dear Sheriff,

      I sometimes disagreed with you (last time on racist topic I had 100% different view) but I always respected you as I focus, like you, on football being played in a most fair manner possible.

      On the other hand, I always agreed with you with regard to some stupid instructions making football more dirty and thuggish. And I will always agree with anyone stating that Brian Hall constantly destroys CONCACAF refereeing.

      I can ensure you that for any intelligent refereeing-oriented person, otherwise very interesting and passionate CONCACAF football is totally unwatchable only because of what Brian Hall requires from his referees. Exactly the same thing we, refereeing people, experienced during WC2014.

      So, I would rather recommend you to switch on CONMEBOL or UEFA football instead of giving up. I think your voice (maybe not so polemicist like in some cases though ;) ) would be an added value to our debates.

      But it's your decision and choose the option the most suits you.

      Best regards from Bulgaria!

      Delete
  18. Lahoz is referee on Saturday between Real Madrid vs. FC Barcelona

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  19. https://www.playsport.ro/exclusiv-dezvaluiri-uluitoare-ale-lui-octavian-sovre-lionel-messi-mi-a-semnat-9-cartonase-cand-a-auzit-pentru-ce-le-vreau-24556

    Arbitration tanned me. I'm a gentle Transylvanian, who doesn't get upset too easily. I had moments in the past when they affected me, but over time I learned to resist. And to be honest, I didn't really read the reviews because I didn't have time. I just got home and I couldn't really see what was written or discussed. It's true, I talked to the family and I was told that there was a lot of discussion on the subject.

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  20. What about Vincic for EL final in case of Mateu in CL final? I think he deserves it!

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    Replies
    1. I do not think Vincic should be in EL final. Instead, I expect he will be in EL semi-final. This is his first season in CL KO stage, so it is very unlikely for him to get EL final.

      Delete
  21. Surprised no YC from Ekberg for the tackle at 26'.

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  22. I think supportable PK by Siebert in Zagreb (handball)

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    Replies
    1. In Italy "correct", internationally "supportable". :)

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    2. I think if he only watched it on video, he wouldnt have whistled it. But since there is no clear criteria, VAR can support probably

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  23. Good 1H by Ekberg in London. I liked his verbal warning at 28' - Slavia player pulled his leg away and I think a card would have inflamed, not calmed the game down.

    Further potential YCs at 22' (striking) and 34' (handling - missed defensive freekick). Some freekick whistles a bit late but no bigger problem.

    Despite his demonstrative manner and long whistle tones, Swede is only interested in serving football with his approach - good!

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  24. Good free kick decision outside the box by Ekberg (47').

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    Replies
    1. Very well-seen! Just to add, correct YC (SPA) too, and good charisma against the semi-mobbing Arsenal players.

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  25. Correct penalty Karasev '51

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  26. Supportable penalty by Karasev, but once again, I don't feel an elite referee is in charge here. He gives the penalty, looks very angry and annoyed, doesn't talk and doesn't gain much authority. Also whistling: too long where it isn't needed, and visa versa.

    Also, Karasev seems to think authority comes with big gestures.
    So far not a bad performance, no real mistakes, but yeah...

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    Replies
    1. I agree with your analysis, personally this is what I really don't like from him. Always these gestures, he looks to be angry, not natural style.
      In first half, minute 36:50, another example of that, he came to warn two players, just whistling repeatdly and making gestures, it was even irritating.
      He should try to be by far more and more natural.

      Delete
    2. Yes. he wanted to de-escalate, by escalating the situation with big gestured and really authoritive behavior. Well, it did seem to unite the players, but not because he stimulated them in good behavior.

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  27. Karasev with a correct penalty to Ajax.

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  28. Very soft free kick for Roma before 1-1

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    Replies
    1. "Soft" free kick? Seriously? Something new for football like "soft" offside. It's either free kick or not. And it was a free kick.

      Delete
  29. The campaing of hatred against Karasev here is absolutely disgusting. Noone tells concrete mistakes the Russian did, only emotional comments like "he doesn't impress me". The level of argumentation of "experts" here is simply unbelievable.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ok, but what do you think about his soft skills and style? Or you think it is not important?

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    2. Hatred, come on! There’s nobody speaking about a bad performance, just some opinions that he doesn’t impress concerning body language and communication. And RikB and Chefren perfectly elaborate on that with concrete and valid arguments.

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    3. There we have your mistake Rob, a blatantly missed caution for Tagliafico!

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    4. I think a red card for SFP was even possible there. Very, very nasty challenge by Tagliafico, a player who does this every and every game.

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    5. Anonymous, that's the problem that nobody speaks about bad performance focusing on "body language and communication" as if there's a unique and the only right standard for a ref. These criteria are absolutely subjective and I know tons of people who love Karasev's body language and think he looks really cool. the Russian isn't a 100 euro note that should be liked by everyone and questioning his "naturalness" is beyond everything and very comic.

      P.S. Clear yellow card is missed, but is it a reason to lynch him?

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    6. It appears you’re extremely sensitive when it comes to Karasev... Nobody is lynching your friend, only some critical comments.

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    7. Thanks for another example of counter-argumentation! Yes, we will drink vodka with the Russian after another impressive performance in Amsterdam!

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    8. I don't lynch anyone. I used to like Karasev, but the way how he deals with players is one I don't like and that doesn't seem to me like an elite referee who really is in charge. We can all debate on that and I am completely fine with it.
      Most decisions he took were right (or not wrong), except the blatant YC for Tagliafico. He hasn't done badly, I think it's around an 8.2 (-0,1 for the blatant YC, -0,1 for the bodylanguage). So in fact, a good performance.
      But Karasev has the perfect body for a strong bodylanguage. And to my opinion, he doesn't use that effective.

      Delete
    9. Yeah after reading the comments I also feel you are too sensitive regarding Karasev. I personally do not like his style either as he is usually angry on his face. Another example is Sidiropoulos, which is too soft and with no personality in my point of view. Most people are able to in the blog make judgement based on performance. The objectivity is the reason I like this blog.

      Delete
    10. RikB, thanks for a constructive feedback and for using such phrases like "in my opinion", etc. I agree that overall he had a good night today and disagree about bodylanguage and the way he deals with players remarks. But let's agree to disagree here.

      Delete
    11. Forlan, my main point was that the referee's performance should be based on the number of mistakes he did during the game. In my opinion, questioning Karasev's right to be among elite referees or being at Euro based on bodylanguage, style, naturalness of behaviour, etc is simple ridiculous. I personally found Markus Merk or Cüneyt Çakır's stye absolutely horrible, but does it make them bad referees?

      Delete
    12. @Rob
      Ok, thank you. The thing is that you can be more productive if you just clarify your opinion like this, instead of commenting what you think about other comments.

      Personally, I see Karasev as a bit unpredictable, IMO his foul detection and "style" is not completely consistent throughout the game.But I havent seen this game at all so I cant comment anything.

      Delete
  30. Late PK to Man United given by Soares Dias (striking?), YC given, no VAR intervention.

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  31. A Ball-boy in Amsterdam threw deliberately the ball against a player of Roma with a certain force. He should have been dismissed by Karasev, but he only booked player for reaction.

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    Replies
    1. The yc was already in Karasev hands before the reaction of the ballboy. Player of Roma ignored the first ball who was 3cm next to him

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    2. Can a referee dismiss a ball boy???

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    3. Simple answer.... NO! He was behind the commercialsboards...and doesn't belong to the staff or players, so simply nothing Karasev can do

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    4. Exactly! That's why I was wondering reading the comment above saying that Karasev should have dismissed the ball boy...

      Delete
  32. Slovak referee8 April 2021 at 22:54

    Arsenal - Slavia Prague (Ekberg - Culum, Hallberg - Munuera)

    21' Borderline reckless aerial challenge from the Arsenal player, but with how the match progresses so far, good YC no-call
    24' Good DFK call next to a corner flag
    26' YC would definitely be prefered, but let's see what will the strong warning do
    29' Fantastic offside no-call by Culum
    34' Foul the other way around, Zima was pushed before the handball

    A very quiet first half, far cry from the Rangers - Slavia game. No work at all for Ekberg in the first 20 minutes, then he had some smaller challenges. Wanted to keep his card in the pocket and issued some well-placed warnings, which worked out pretty well.

    48' Fantastic call by Ekberg (probably with Hallberg) identifying that the foul took place outside the penalty area and issuing YC
    59' Good advantage leading to a promising attack
    70' A hard aerial challenge, YC should have been issued

    A very easy match for Ekberg. Almost no work at all, he was a little lenient in issuing cautions, but it did not come back to bite him. Worked with some well-placed warnings and because of this, he let the game flow and had absolutely no dissent from players and coaches. He managed the only key situation perfectly and it contained the only caution of the match.

    Great work by Culum on the offside no-call in 29' and also by Hallberg regarding the inside/outside situation in 48'. No work at all for Munuera.

    R - 8.5
    AR1 - 8.4
    AR2 - 8.4
    VAR - 8.3

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. More 8,4 (7 in my system :)) material for me but indeed, good performance by Ekberg. Personally I liked his verbal warnings at 28' and 70' - YCs were certainly possible but his solutions were best for this particular game.

      Delete
    2. Slovak referee8 April 2021 at 23:02

      Yes, he fitted the game perfectly - softer, non-intrusive performance. I think we would see the challenges as YCs in RAP, but I think everybody at the UEFA will be happy with how he assessed them in this match. The only YC was absolutely mandatory.

      Delete
    3. Have a feeling that Ekberg and Siebert will be promoted next month, just in time for Euro.

      Delete
    4. Slovak referee8 April 2021 at 23:07

      I think he may be given another fixture before that, maybe even some "pre-decided" (3-0, 4-1 after the first game) 2nd leg CL game. This match did not challenge his skills, so I think Rosetti might give him another go.

      Delete
  33. Good night for Andreas Ekberg. Crucial call of the evening - freekick + YC at 47' - was spot on. I really liked his verbal warnings for borderline caution offences at 28' (tackle) and 70' (charging). Biggest problem was missed advantage at 72'; nice onside by Mehmet Culum at 29'.

    There wasn't enough data to assess on this evening if Ekberg should be promoted, but if this was the final test - he passed for sure.

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  34. Good match from Karasev today

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  35. I was really impressed by Karasev tonight.
    Major decisions all correct and the YCs perfectly given. There was only one missed YC against Tagliafico.

    Not every thing likes his body language on this blog (and that's okay) but today it worked very well for me.No (big) protests from players in a exciting and quite hectic end.

    I want to mention that he gave through the game some very positive advantages which led to some dangerous counter attacks (33').
    And his ARs with some good calls too.

    For me in the end a positive imprrssion of the Russian/Belarusian crew with some smaller improvements in soft skills.

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  36. Karasev after the nightmare Germany vs Northern Macedonia tonight with some minor mistakes until he ignored a brutal elbow foul of Tagliafico seconds before the end, who should have seen a 2nd YC or even a straight RC for that. Body language better than last week, but bad - missing - communication. For me still not enough for EURO, but I expect he will be nominated for political reasons.

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    Replies
    1. What brutal elbow foul are you referring to? Do you have a minute? I can’t recall anything of such in the dying seconds of the match to be honest.

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    2. Just seconds before the end. In German TV it was shown.

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    3. Mmmm, remarkable! I rewatched the final seconds and I can’t find any incident involving Tagliafico. It happened between the ball-boy incident and the final whistle?

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    4. Some seconds before final whistle there was an aerial duel close to the benches but replay was not shown (here).

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  37. Predictions for 2nd legs (VAR in brackets)
    Manchester - Granada: Stieler (Dankert)
    Slavia - Arsenal: Marciniak (Gil)
    Roma - Ajax: Oliver (Kavanagh)
    Villareal - Zagreb: Kovacs (Kamphuis)

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    Replies
    1. Marciniak has a match in Polish Ekstraklasa on Friday (Wisła-Raków). VAR: Pskit (non-Uefa)

      Maybe Marciniak will have a match CL or EL next week.

      Delete
  38. Good night for Karasev fortunately. Im happy that he managed to go through the game but im still not impressed, that might be personal taste as well. For me it is better than I expected but I still hope we wont see Karasev at Euro at all. Or only in the GS simple GS matches. When we take performance principle into account Karasevs season should have been over after the disaster in Germany and he surely already got more than deserved with this QF. It might be (and most Lively will be) enough for an Euro ticket. But for me he doesnt deserve more than a "filler"spot

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  39. Any further informations about Skomina? I would love to see him AND Vincic at EURO...

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    Replies
    1. Nobody knows about Skomina's condition, but he already recovery from his injury, training in Bonifika, Koper.


      I always see him there

      Delete
  40. Does anyone know where to find full Concacaf Champions League referee appointments? The match reports on Concacaf's website only list the referee and nationality, no ARs or fourth official.

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    Replies
    1. http://refereeingworld.blogspot.com/2021/04/concacaf-champions-league-round-of-16.html

      Delete
  41. Refree for the round 2 i give my conments liverpool vs r mad = orsato(massimalano irrati

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  42. Dormunt vs city = kuiper(pol v boekel)

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  43. Psg vs bay= cakir (kevin blom)

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  44. Chelsea vs porto=turpin(letxier)

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  45. Uel 2e leg refrees manutd vs granada=willem collum( steinhaus)

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  46. Roma vs ajax= gil manzano(sanchez martinez)

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  47. Arsenal vs praha slavia= siebert( marco fritz

    ReplyDelete
  48. Dinamo vs villa.r= kabulkov( tierney)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Siebert will have 0 chance in EL next week, and I will be extremely surprised to see Collum, Manzano, Kabulkov as well

      Delete
    2. Especially I doubt we will see Massimalano, Kuiper, Letxier, Willem and Kabulkov.

      Delete
  49. Kabulkov = (Kulbakov + Kabakov)/2
    Kabulkov = 2/(1/Kulbakov + 1/Kabakov)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My prediction.

      Svlia Praha-Arnesal: Cakir-Cynet (Tur)
      R0ma-AFCAjax: Tylor-Tyrnery (Eng)
      Mutd-Granada: Greenfield-Orel (Isr)
      Villarael-Zagreb: Marcikina-Simon (Pol)

      :D

      Delete
  50. I think in CL we will see: Turpin, Del Cerro Grande, Orsato and Cakir.
    English ref could maybe have a game in EL, I think OLiver (Taylor could wait for a CL semifinal without english teams??), Zwayer, Grinfeeld and Marciniak.

    ReplyDelete
  51. I red just now such interview to Roberto Rosetti, who blamed the request of autograph to the player.
    http://refereeingworld.blogspot.com/2021/04/rosetti-asking-for-player-autographs-or.html
    Do you expect any consequence also for Hategan or just to Sovre ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If EURO was really in trouble before Manchester match, now I do not know what to think...

      Delete
  52. Anyone with clip of Tagliafico elbow reported by Andrasch?

    ReplyDelete
  53. https://www.rfef.es/noticias/cambio-lesion-muscular-designacion-arbitral-del-real-madrid-barcelona-jornada-30-primera
    Mateu Lahoz injured, I hope nothing serious, otherwise he could miss the chance of CL final in case.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gil Manzano will replace him. It will be his second Clásico (first one was in 2014-15)

      Delete
    2. I wish Mateu a quick recover, may he be fit soon.

      In the meantime, I'm quite happy Gil Manzano is given the opportunity to handle another clasico, I think he deserves it(his first clasico wasn't bad either from what I recall).
      I always found it strange that he didn't got one before when Hernandez Hernandez handled four in the last years (would have gotten five, but was replaced by Undiano in 2019 due to an injury IIRC). Nothing again Hdz Hdz, if course.

      I think that RFEF-CTA relies too much on Mateu, Hdz Hdz and Sanchez Martinez for the clasicos, while referees like Gil Manzano, Martinez Munuera (handled one last year) and De Burgos Bengoetxea (got one in 2016) are perfectly able to whistle these high profile games and deserve it as they showed consistent perfomances in La Liga for the past seasons.

      Delete
    3. Somebody said here that he thought Mateu was injured because he was running weirdly. It seems he was right. Given it is muscular, probably the highest risks for Mateu regarding CL final are still Real Madrid and Rosetti.

      Delete
    4. Actually I think I read that on Twitter, not here.

      Delete
  54. Rosetti in a internal mail to UEFA officials:
    Rosetti also urged officials to avoid players and coaches to speak about decisions. "You do not need to explain anything to the players or coaches after the match, even if you realise you have made a mistake on the pitch," he said. "Admit the mistake to your team and to the referee observer. Contact me about it, if you wish, but do not ask to see the coach after the match to explain or apologise for your mistake." Rosetti addressed the subject of interviews with journalists in the same correspondence. "Remember what one of the former UEFA Referee Committee chairman once told us: the best media interview is the one you do not give," he said. "Don't talk to journalists about matches you have just officiated at and finally, respect the timing. You cannot be late out of the dressing room. Take responsibility for your team and make sure they follow your lead and respect you. In the end it is you who will suffer most from poor behaviour by any member of your team."

    Shocking, unbelievable. Admitting mistakes is part of being a top referee.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I don't know if he did send an email like that. But if he did, I agree with you. The feedback from the press was very positive, when Makkelie spoke about his (or assistants) mistake at SER vs. POR. Has there been another example recently, where the ref apologised and it was not a good idea?

      Delete
    2. Yes Rosetti in his mail is blaming both Sovre for the autograph episode and Makkelie for apologize after Portugal-Serbia.
      Honestly speaking I appreciate so much when one referee can recognize his mistake; this part of the job and the life but this must be done in respect of everybody and not for gaining the approval or the positive feedback from the press. Sometime journalists want just to be protagonists with news and "bombs".
      Anyway I'm afraid that Hategan will miss Euro 2020. It would be a pity because will not be easy to find 18 top level referees

      Delete
    3. Referees not talking to the media, not speaking to the public, not explaining their reasons or mistakes. This paradigm has led us to where we are today: Happy only when invisible, not fighting for the best decision but for not creating any newspaper on the next morning. In my opinion this is a way to think on refereeing that belongs into history books of the 2000-years. Transparency creates acceptance. Hiding is no solution. Easy, very easy principle.

      Delete
    4. Sorry but I have to say this: The level of leadership UEFA refereeing has seen in the last ten years can work in micropolitical Italian power structures, but not within a pluralistic and open-minded Europe with. Change, please!

      Delete
    5. A true leader is one who is humble enough to admit their mistakes. Makkelie showed great leadership and personality by doing this.

      I suspect that UEFA doesn't like these kind of honesty because they want to keep the referees "small" and now he was praised in the media and all arrows were aimed at UEFA FIFA for not using GLT.

      Conservative thought and not in the interest of their employees! Without any problem Makkelie can officiate Portugal again after his honesty and acceptance by everybody and this should make UEFA happy.

      Delete
    6. ANONYMOUS, whoever you are I applaud your modern and open thinking.
      Mental ( but also physical) walls need to be knocked down and not raised. Locking yourself in the hole is the worst action .

      Delete
    7. For sure a totally different approach compared to Germany. Referees are allowed to speak to media if they want to. It is common that they explain their decisions or to say 'I made a mistake', which shows that they are human being. There were quite a lot of documentaries, TV shows or interviews with referees in recent times and it works well, I think. DFB also decided to make statements explaining controversial decisions after weekend. Transparency is very important in these times. I do not think referees need to be 'arrogant', they do not have to deny that they mistakes as everyone.
      However, refering to the 'autograph incident', I support what Rosetti wrote. Photos like this seem unprofessional although there was a reasonable background behind it.

      Delete
    8. It could easily be done through the referee liaison officer, without unnecessarily exposing the match officials neutral image.

      Delete
    9. I'd like to know Aleksander Čeferin's thoughts on this, he who seems to me a very open mind to communication and the future

      Delete
    10. As long as he is open mind, dear Pita Falta, he is not a referee and he can't question on refereeing matters.

      Delete
  55. Cüneyt Çakır with a Süper Lig match tomorrow afternoon.

    Çaykur Rizespor-Trabzonspor
    (East Black Sea Derby)

    Possible 2nd leg UCL on Tuesday/Wednesday?

    ReplyDelete
  56. Ajax - Roma the mentioned incident:
    https://streamja.com/EwEN3

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Honestly, given his behavior (ignoring first ball), the player "deserved" to be treated in that way... but something should have been done against ball-boy, if you ask me.

      Delete
    2. Agree Chefren. Ball-boy had to be excluded by Karasev in cooperation with uefa delegate.

      Delete
    3. To be honest I was surprised by some comments yesterday "Referee can nothing against ball boy". So what if a ball boy goes mad an he beats a player? Nobody can intervene? If not directly referee, he could indeed have asked other UEFA and team officials to do something against the responsible of that behavior.

      Delete
    4. First off all the player himself should look at his behaviour, its disgusting behaviour when a ballboy throws a ball to you and you don't accept it! Be a professional!! off course the ballboy... wich is normally a kidd is angry, and i should do the same! finally both deserved to be send away, because the player after he got thrown a ball on him definetly said some bad words so that should be after the first yellow card for delaying the game another for intimidating the ball boy! and yes the ballboy wich Karasev can't send away because he is not a team official should be delated also, but my thought go first to the behaviour of a professional grown up man, against a kidd!!

      Delete
    5. Eric: So basically what you are saying is that delaying the restart is disgusting behaviour. The kid threw the ball at hos throat. The players reaction is completely calm considering what happened and a normal football player would have acted way more immature and probably taken revenge. The kid is the one to blame. The player got the cars he deserved for delaying the restart.

      Delete
    6. Don't agree it all starts with the player not accepting ball/delaying time, while the brave ballboy throws the ball very close to him, he even has it in his hands, but then descides to steel some time! it's disgusting behaviour! Off course what the ballboy does is not good, but i can understand his reaction, and even some Dutch tv (sports)reporters called the ballboy a hero! It's what we here call a koekje van eigen deeg (translated in English Payback time)

      Delete
    7. How is the ball boy brave for doing his job? He gave him the ball, that's not brave, that's his job. The player delayed the restart and the referee blew the whistle to issue the card, then the kid threw the ball at his throat. It seems like you haven't seen players delay the restart ever before.

      Delete
  57. BREAKING | The Romanian Refs' Committee decided to STOP assistant ref Sovre from refereeing for the time being. He will not be part of Hategan's officiating team on the last round of the regular season in the Romanian first tier.

    https://twitter.com/Emishor/status/1380451841574629377

    I read this decision by Romanian FA just to protect Hategan, now it seems clear that there aren't anymore chances for Sovre to attend EURO...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Terrible decision by romanian FA, IMO. The explanation, the context in which this all happened, should be enough to abolish him of guilty and let him continue with a warning. Come on, a guy seems to be collecting autographs to help sick people in need for years, and now he is caught once doing this on cam and it is disqualifying mistake?

      Delete
    2. True Decision from The Romanian Refs' Committee. Congrats.

      Delete
    3. I am sure the decision was taken in order to keep Hategan's chances for Euro. Without replacing the AR, the entire trio would have had less chances.
      Remember Kassai was stubborn to keep Eros in his trio despite his many mistakes and, at the end, Kassai paid for that by not getting anymore major appointments. As Rosetti said, the referee is the leader of his team and is responsible for his team.

      Delete
  58. When UEFA announced EURO match Offical?

    ReplyDelete
  59. read time between late March and early April. Now I don't know, maybe they are waiting because of the locations is my guess. Does anyone have more certain news?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The total number of match officials needs depends on how many host cities will be approved, so that must be decided first.

      Delete
  60. I think UEFA will wait 2nd legs of 4er finals. After that, I am pretty sure that the list will be out.

    ReplyDelete
  61. Unbelievable interview released today by Nicola Rizzoli to the Italian newspaper 'Corriere dello sport', in which he denied the concept of clear mistake and said refs have to use Var "in all doubtful situations". Speechless.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. In Italy we have a problem with journalists and sport press.
      They WANT that referees use VAR always, in every doubtful situation, just ignoring protocol, to make clubs happy. This is because Italian fans don't want to accept that VAR don't intervene in certain situations.
      This media campaign is lasting by years, and after very discussed games, they always put pressure on AIA and referees to use VAR. I wouldn't be too much astonished to guess that they even changed some statements released by Rizzoli, writing a different concept. But be sure... what they want is that referees use always VAR. Rizzoli should know that releasing such interview would have just complicated things!
      Rosetti in his letter to UEFA referees reported the words by somebody: "The best interview is the one you don't give" and I would say that sometimes these words can't sound more correct than they really are! Better to stay silent, than to be misunderstood (but this is a deliberate act by journalist).
      The last controversial game has been Juventus - Napoli on last Wednesday, it was a very controversial performance of Mariani, with two missed penalty and some problems in disciplinary control of the game. VAR did two crucial mistakes, at least this is what we can point out after having made the analysis of the game and the suspension of both Mariani and Di Paolo, missing an intervention in two cases. At first a very reckless tackle on Chiesa when ball was already kicked, and then a trip in penalty area. In this latter case, Mariani made signals as he had assessed everything, but he didn't see anything, so he just impeded VAR from intervening by that gestures. Nevertheless the incident by itself was quite clear...

      Delete
    2. Really fascinating to see how different perceptions can be on VAR. In the UK the calls from the media are for absolute minimum intervention, particular concerning offside. The opinion on what constitutes a handball with the new laws is also wildly different. Its part of what must make officiating at an internal level so different

      Delete
  62. Another Premier League game another missed penalty by referee and VAR, this time in Manchester City v Leeds. Clear holding on Stones, should be a penalty.

    ReplyDelete
  63. Now a VAR review for SFP. Shocking Challenge! And the referee, Andre Marriner has made the right decision after his OFR and sent Cooper off for SFP.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That missed holding (it was clear that Marriner was looking elsewhere) in UEFA games should have resulted in an OFR because missed incident and clear foul. It seems as English VARs feel free to act differently if at PL or UEFA duties. At least, the OFR for SFP was called...
      Also, to add, today after a very, very long time I watched again Marriner in this first half, it seems as he has become the classic Premier League official, not the best physical condition, missing in reaction after major incidents. There was also a possible penalty for City for handball, I think he didn't see anything there, but it was correct decision to play on. Just waiting for VAR check, before allowing corner kick execution...
      I would like to see more deciding attitudes in English referees!

      Delete
  64. Come ooooon!!!! This is not football anymore. This English VAR destroys football. This offside from Jota (Liverpool-Vila) - micrometers. You can not measure where elbow finishes amd where arm starts. You can’t stop the picture in milisecond when the ball leaves the foot. Moreover - the ball touched the foot of Vila defender, but referee totally missed it. This English reda and VAR are incredible!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Seems the rules have changes; a player can also with an elbow stand offside...

      Delete
  65. Süper Lig Matchday 34
    Çaykur Rizespor - Trabzonspor 1:1

    Cüneyt Çakır - Bahattin Duran - Tarık Ongun - Koray Gençeler
    [Özgür Yankaya - Oğuzhan Uğurlu]

    https://m.tr.beinsports.com/mac-merkezi/caykur-rizespor-trabzonspor?id=111460033&tab=video

    00.24 > possible penalty TRA
    00.46 > disallowed goal TRA, corner kick given and goal scored after ball crossed the line
    01.07 > possible penalty TRA
    01.30 > handball in the wall, possible penalty RIZ
    01.46 > possible penalty TRA
    01.51 > YC TRA #13 after an illegal stamp on foot
    01.59 > YC RIZ #11, possible RC and the other player should have been cautioned/red carded
    02.19 > 2nd YC TRA #13 tactical foul

    ReplyDelete
  66. RC incident in Spanish 2nd Division match between Real Oviedo and Las Palmas, LPM9 sent off with a straight RC for SFP in 66', no VAR intervention. Correct or harsh?

    Referee Francisco José Hernández Maeso (1988), VAR Iñaki Vicandi Garrido (1986)

    https://streamable.com/2tz87h

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. In my opinion VAR should have intervened, no arguments to support a RC for SFP.

      Delete
    2. It seems that there is a contact with an open foot of the LEFT leg and ankle of the fouled player. So Id say correct call.

      Delete
    3. ridiculous decision, YC is enough

      Delete
    4. Fully correct. Studs on ankle from behind!

      Delete
    5. Excellent call IMO! Very refreshing to see zero tolerance for ugly play such as that (look at the leg that doesn't make contact too).

      Delete
    6. Correct decision as forlan and Mikael said. Bad tackle and brave RC !

      Delete
    7. In my view nothing refreshing in the positive meaning of the term. For me a wrong decision. I see nothing ugly here, only a sliding player who tries to play the ball but is too late with his tackle (warranting a YC), and as a result, due to momentum, hits the opponent with the studs on the ankle with low to average intensity. Not endangering the opponent’s and no excessive force used —> YC

      Delete
    8. Perfect. Bravo Francisco and bravo Inaki to keep silent.

      Delete
    9. I guess, the discussion shows, that no VAR intervention was correct, because this is not a clear situation and there are arguments for both colours.
      For me personally, the arguments for YC outweigh.

      Delete
    10. For me, correct no VAR intervention. I would prefer a YC, though

      Delete
    11. For me more than perfect red card, late tackle from behind, with no chance to play te ball, and high risk to injure the player,,,, even the laws off the game give no other solution then red card, i don't understand people who prefer yellow card, this is cristal clear red!

      Delete
  67. 2 VAR interventions for Sidiropoulos today. Both handball incidents.

    https://streamable.com/dsz50e

    https://streamable.com/l6ef3k

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. First case: I wouldn't blame referee too much, good thing that he detected handball, not easy to spot whether inside or outside as it happened exactly on the line.
      Second case: difficult to say more, the only replay doesn't help too much in understanding. I could guess it was a difficult touch to spot.

      Delete
  68. In Italy, Fabio Maresca gave a straight RC to Zlatan. The Milan player said 'sempre tu' to the referee according to Italian media, which translates to 'always you'. For Maresca, I hope Zlatan said more because those words never justify a straight red IMO.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Don't trust media, of course Ibrahimovic said more.
      But we should talk about something... Maresca is the only referee who is always consistent in sending off players for verbal protests and insults, I start to think that most of referees bear everything during a game just to keep things easy. I admire a referee who is not afraid of possible consequence, by sending off a big name. Of course, this shouldn't be done without reason, but once the insult is said, nothing can avoid a RC. In case of update with the exact words used by the Swedish, I will report it here.

      Delete
  69. Liverpool-Aston Villa
    Paul Tierney, Simon Bennett, Constantine Hatzidakis

    Minute 82 bad mistake by ref and AR2 who whistle offside of a player who received the ball directly from a goal kick

    https://streamable.com/db72gc

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wow, what an inattentiveness - that mustn't happen on this level.

      Delete
  70. Good/expected 1H by Gil Manzano in el Clásico, 2 correct YCs for Pedri and Araujo (SPA). Only noticeable mistakes for me a missed YC for Busquets and a wrong corner in the last play (that led to Messi almost scoring an Olympic goal)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I see again an excellent Jesus that lately has been lost a bit

      Delete
    2. I hope Rosetti will start using him the way Jesus deserves.

      Delete
    3. For me totally okay to give no yc for busquets. Both players take the same risk. Also think it is a very good Performance so far

      Delete
  71. Correct Play on decision by jesus in penalty area in my opinion. Your view?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree. Play on is the best decision.

      Delete
    2. Definitely not a PK if you ask me. On the broadcaster replays, it looked more like simulation than PK, no holding/tripping.

      Delete
    3. Okay. German commentators said that it is a clear mistake. I can not understand that. But correct sent Off casemiro now. Excellent Jesus gil manzano tonight.

      Delete
  72. Now correct SYC for Casemiro by Gil Manzano

    ReplyDelete
  73. Cor me okay, but Gil Manzzno did bot know what to decide. Hé was waiting and waiting. The fear was in huis eyes. That was nog very convinving.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gil Manzano's body language is quite improvable despite taking correct decisions, yep.

      Delete
  74. Good performance by Gil Manzano, I think he got all crucial decisions correct (no PK by Mendy, 2YC for Casemiro)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Agree with you Quilava. This is Jesus i love. Welcome back Jesus.

      Delete