Alireza Faghani – A Trailblazing International Football Referee
A Stellar International Career
Major Tournaments and Notable Matches
Over more than a decade, Faghani has officiated at some of the most prestigious football tournaments worldwide, including:
- FIFA World Cup (2018, 2022): Faghani was selected as one of the elite referees for these tournaments, a recognition of his skill and professionalism. He officiated multiple matches, including knockout-stage fixtures, demonstrating his ability to manage the highest level of international competition.
- AFC Asian Cup (2015, 2019, 2023): He refereed the final of the 2015 Asian Cup, where he showcased exceptional control in a high-stakes match between South Korea and Australia. His performance earned widespread praise, solidifying his reputation as Asia’s top referee.
- Olympic Football Final (2016 Rio Olympics): Officiating the Olympic final in Brazil was a career highlight, as it is one of the most prestigious matches in international sports.
- FIFA Club World Cup (2015, 2016, 2025): Faghani has been entrusted with the responsibility of refereeing the final of the FIFA Club World Cup multiple times, including the 2015 final between River Plate and FC Barcelona, one of the most watched club matches globally.
- FIFA Confederations Cup (2017): He officiated matches in Russia, including the semi-final, demonstrating his adaptability to diverse football cultures and environments.
- A-League (Australia): After his migration to Australia in 2019, Faghani became a full-time official in the A-League Men, continuing to excel in domestic competitions while officiating at international tournaments representing Australia.
Notable Matches and Incidents
Throughout his career, Faghani has been involved in several high-profile and sometimes controversial matches, demonstrating his ability to handle pressure and contentious situations with professionalism:
- 2018 FIFA World Cup: His performance in Russia earned praise from FIFA officials and football experts worldwide, affirming his place among the top referees.
- 2022 FIFA World Cup: His decisions in key moments, including a controversial penalty against Uruguay, sparked debate but also showcased his unwavering commitment to fairness.
- AFC Asian Cup 2023: His officiating in the tournament’s opening match and subsequent fixtures reflected his high standards and adaptability to different footballing styles.
