World Cup 2026: Qatari referee to officiate Portugal vs DR Congo clash

17.06.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

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DR Congo

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Just 48 hours before DR Congo’s maiden appearance in the World Cup against Portugal, FIFA has appointed a highly experienced refereeing crew. The Leopards know what awaits them at NRG Stadium.

Abdulrahman Al Jassim will head the officiating team for the Portugal vs DR Congo showdown. The Qatari international referee will be assisted by Taleb Al Marri and Saud Al Maqaleh. This trio brings strong international experience to the pitch.

Al Jassim officiated the 2019 FIFA Club World Cup final between Liverpool and Flamengo, as well as the third-place playoff at the 2022 World Cup between Morocco and Croatia. FIFA is banking on experience for this unprecedented Group K showdown.

Before the World Cup, Al Jassim refereed 14 matches in the 2025-2026 season. His record: 3 red cards, which accounts for 21% of his games. This high rate means the Congolese Leopards must maintain strict discipline. Against the technical Portuguese Seleção, the Leopards will need to avoid repeated sanctions.

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.

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