FIFA defends referee after France's coach criticizes officiating
ESPN Soccer • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 15, 2026, 8:14 PM
Last updated Jul 15, 2026
FIFA's director of refereeing Pierluigi Collina defended the officiating in the semifinal match between France and Spain. His comments follow criticism from France's coach Didier Deschamps regarding the referee's performance. The match is currently ongoing, and tensions surrounding officiating continue as both teams vie for a spot in the final.
- •Pierluigi Collina spoke out in defense of the referee.
- •Didier Deschamps criticized the officiating after the semifinal match.
- •The match between France and Spain is currently in progress.
- 8:30 PMESPN Soccer — FIFA defends 'world-class' ref after France critic...
"FIFA's director of refereeing Pierluigi Collina defended the referee in Tuesday's semifinal between France and Spain following criticism from France coach Didier Deschamps.
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