RateTheRef

I don’t think it’ll be UEFA. It might’ve been if it was Spain vs England but I think they’ll keep neutrality.

So for me, Adham Makhadmeh or Alireza Faghani. Couldn’t pick between either.

I’d say Faghani. And all in all, I’d say deserved.

No-one’s mentioned Barton/Elfath.  Bearing in mind that Tori Penso refereed a semi and the Final in the Women’s World Cup, it could happen.

I’m not saying it SHOULD happen, but with FIFA, anything CAN happen.  And from what I’ve read, both were ok in their semis, especially Elfath, confounding many of the expectations on here - including mine!

Spain v Argentina should eliminate Portugal and Brazil from Final contention.

I can't see it being one who reffed a semi, or a second final for Marciniak, but who knows. There must still be a UEFA appointment between the two games or why keep that number of refs? An Iranian ref would be a turn up for the books given the current climate but again, if he's not a contender why not send him back to Oz after the quarters?

If neutrality eliminates UEFA then it'll have to eliminate Venezuela too. Which leaves Faghani (above), Makhmedeh or Jayed - politically you'd think the outsider there is Faghani. Makhmedeh has already reffed 4 games so maybe he will get 4th?

I'm giving up on predictions now before I have to re-mortgage!

Can we not imagine The Rump picking up the phone, and the following conversation taking place:

Hi Gianni, how are you today?

Oh hi Don.  I’m good.  How are you?

I’m good.  Listen, Gianni, I’ve been thinking. Since our man had such a great game yesterday between two warring nations, have you thought about rewarding him by giving him the Final on Sunday?  It would also be a way to thank the United States for being the host country [sic] of this fabulous tournament.

I’ve been thinking along the same lines, Don.

Terrific.  I guess Pierluigi won’t be too happy as he’s kept all those other guys here to be in with a shout, eh?

Oh don’t worry about Pierluigi.  I call him Sandie nowadays anyway.

I don’t get it, Gianni.

      [There now follows a brief discussion of the Eurovision Song Contest and singers     
      with bare feet, which I shall not bore you with].

So that’s settled then, Gianni.  Our man for the Final.  I know he’s of Moroccan descent but he’s an American citizen and that’s what counts.  Ciao Gianni.

Ciao Don.  See you on Sunday.


       [I’m only joking of course.  I mean, such outside interference with the appointing 
       process of a World Cup Final would never take place.  Would it ??]

Seems to be a strong rumour emanating (unconfirmed of course) that Faghani has the final..

It’s not like they didn’t know it was going to happen. Play a few stars (important for people who’ve bought tickets), take them off, give other lads a game. Don’t get hurt and appreciate the support from fans. That’s all you can do.