Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Nizaar Kinsella

England vs France referee Wilton Sampaio in line for World Cup final despite criticism

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio, who officiated Saturday’s quarter-final between England and France, is in line to take charge of the World Cup Final.

Sampaio was heavily criticised for his performance as England lost 2-1 to France. England defender Harry Maguire branded his display as “really poor”, while Jude Bellingham said Sampaio was “not great”.

They felt some decisions went against England, including when appeals for a first-half penalty were denied following a challenge on Harry Kane.

But Sampaio is in the frame to referee the final, along with English official Anthony Taylor. Michael Oliver has been sent home despite a controlling performance in the quarter-final between Brazil and Croatia.

England stars such as Jude Bellingham were heavily critical of Wilton Sampaio’s performance (REUTERS)

Italian referee Daniele Orsato will take charge of the first semi-final between Argentina and Croatia on Tuesday. FIFA are expected to announce the referee for the other semi-final between Morocco and France later on Monday.

The World Cup’s first female referee Stephanie Frappart has also gone home as the pool is naturally reduced with fewer matches to work on.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.