FIFA appoints Alireza Faghani as referee for Mexico vs England

FIFA has confirmed the officiating team for the World Cup Round of 16 clash between Mexico and England, scheduled for Sunday, July 5, at the Estadio Ciudad de Mexico.

The match will be overseen by central referee Alireza Faghani, a familiar figure for the Mexican national team. Fans have noted the coincidence that Faghani was the man in charge during the group stage match at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where Mexico secured a shock 1-0 victory against Germany.

For many supporters, this appointment is viewed as a positive omen as the team looks to reach the quarter-finals. The 2018 encounter remains one of the most memorable upsets in recent tournament history.

Born in Iran and holding Australian nationality, Faghani is a highly experienced official. Since receiving his FIFA badge in 2008, he has refereed at multiple international tournaments, including the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, as well as the current edition.