World Cup 2026: Istvan Kovacs to referee Tunisia vs Japan clash

21.06.26 FT World Cup

Tunisia

0

:

Japan

4

After a heavy 1-5 defeat to Sweden, Tunisia is gearing up for their second match in the World Cup against Japan. On June 17, FIFA officially announced the appointment of 41-year-old Istvan Kovacs to officiate this Round 2 encounter.

Istvan Kovacs is a highly experienced referee, having officiated over 600 matches, including the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan.

Despite his long career, the Tunisia vs Japan fixture will mark the 41-year-old Romanian’s debut at a World Cup.
He will be assisted by fellow Romanians Mihai Marica and Frentz Tunyogi, while Costa Rican Juan Calderón will serve as the fourth official, with Juan Carlos Mora as reserve assistant referee.

This match is crucial in the race for qualification. Japan comes into the contest following a hard-fought 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, while Tunisia is aiming to bounce back after a tough defeat against Sweden. The opening whistle is set for June 21 at 4:00 a.m. at the Estadio BBVA in Monterrey.

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

Related teams and leagues

Tunisia

Japan

World Cup