2026 World Cup / Argentina - Algeria: FIFA reveals the referee's identity! (Official)

Africa Today at 14:00

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

16.06.26 21:00 World Cup

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FIFA has announced the officiating crew for the highly anticipated clash between Argentina and Algeria. One name stands out in particular: Szymon Marciniak, who is already at the heart of a historic Fennecs encounter.

On Friday, FIFA officially confirmed the refereeing team for the much-awaited Argentina - Algeria, the opening match of Group J at the 2026 World Cup. The showdown, set for June 16 in Kansas City, will be overseen by Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, assisted by his compatriots Tomasz Listkiewicz and Adam Kupsik, while Australian Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh will take on the role of fourth official.

Read also: 2026 World Cup - Argentina: Argentinians fear Algeria

This appointment brings back vivid memories for Algerian supporters. Indeed, Marciniak was already in charge of the unforgettable 2021 Arab Cup semi-final, which Algeria won against Qatar (2-1) after an extraordinary period of stoppage time and a wild finish sealed by Youcef Belaïli’s decisive goal.

Furthermore, the Polish referee is no stranger to Argentina, as he also officiated the 2022 World Cup final won by the Albiceleste. A twist of fate before this prestigious encounter between the reigning world champions and the ambitious Fennecs.

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