refereeing profile and key moments
The match in the round of 16 between Spain and Morocco will feature Fernando Andrés Rapallini as the referee. The game is scheduled for December 6 at 16:00 local time in Education City. The 44-year-old Argentinian balances his officiating career with family business commitments in the construction sector.
Born in La Plata in 1978, Rapallini trained under the guidance of former referee Jorge Vigliano from 1993 and joined the Argentine Football Association (AFA) in 2001. He quickly advanced, making his debut in the Argentine Primera División in 2011 and earning recognition in the international arena by 2014.
career trajectory
Throughout his career, Rapallini has overseen hundreds of matches, earning a reputation for firm, consistent officiating. His leadership has involved managing diverse on-field situations, including a high volume of cautions and disciplinary actions. His experience has spanned domestic leagues and international competitions, reflecting a steady ascent through the ranks.
Rapallini has participated in multiple major tournaments and has built a track record of decision-making in high-pressure environments. He has been involved in finals and key clashes that define regional rivalries, including high-stakes matchups in domestic derbies and continental contests.
In 2021, Rapallini became a bridge between South American and European football. He was part of the exchange program between UEFA and CONMEBOL, becoming one of the first referees from South America to officiate in the European context. This cross-continental experience included roles in prominent European fixtures and important qualifiers, underscoring his versatility and adaptability.
Qatar World Cup 2022 and European exposure
During the 2022 World Cup, Rapallini officiated games with intense atmosphere and strategic importance. In the tournament, he managed matches with high stakes, including encounters that decided progression, and he handled disciplinary matters with consistency. His performance contributed to the overall flow of the games while maintaining rigorous standards for fair play.
In this major assignment, he was supported by a team of fellow referees and assistants from the region. Argentina provided several line judges and off-field officials who worked alongside Rapallini, ensuring clear communication and smooth match management. The VAR and offside reviews for these matches were coordinated with a panel of international assistants, emphasizing accuracy and fairness in critical decisions.
support staff and VAR collaboration
On the VAR side, Rapallini benefited from the expertise of a designated group of assistants who focus on frames and angles that influence crucial calls. The network included colleagues from South America and Europe, with dedicated roles to ensure transparent outcomes. The offside reviews were handled by an experienced team of officials with a shared commitment to accuracy and consistency throughout the tournament.
notable incidents and corrective actions
Early in his career, Rapallini faced scrutiny related to post-match reporting and administrative accuracy. While corrections were requested in some instances, these did not impede his continued selection for higher-profile matches. Instances of misattribution in yellow cards were addressed, and the referee publicly acknowledged the error, reinforcing accountability while maintaining the integrity of the officiating record.
There were other moments where on-field decisions prompted discussions about procedural details, but Rapallini consistently demonstrated a readiness to learn and adapt. His ability to communicate clearly with players and coaching staff helped maintain control in tense moments and contributed to a respectful atmosphere on the pitch.
life beyond the whistle
Outside the stadium, Rapallini remains engaged in family business activities focused on swimming pool construction, design, and maintenance. This balance between professional life and sport reflects a well-rounded individual who applies the same discipline to both arenas as to the field of play.