World Cup: FIFA Names Match Officials for France, Spain Semi-final

FIFA has appointed Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between France and Spain, as two of Europe’s football heavyweights battle for a place in the tournament’s final.

The world football governing body confirmed the appointments in a statement posted on its official X account on Monday.

According to FIFA, Barton will take charge of the highly anticipated encounter at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday, July 14, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 p.m. EDT.

He will be assisted by fellow Salvadoran David Moran as Assistant Referee One, while Argentina’s Antonio Pupiro will serve as Assistant Referee Two. Sweden’s Glenn Nyberg has been appointed fourth official, with compatriot Mahbod Beigi named reserve assistant referee.

The appointment places Barton in charge of one of the biggest matches of the tournament, with both nations aiming to secure a place in the World Cup final.

France reached the semi-finals after another impressive campaign built on defensive discipline and attacking quality. Led by captain Kylian Mbappé, Les Bleus are seeking a fifth World Cup final appearance, having won the competition in 1998 and 2018, while finishing runners-up in 2006 and 2022.

Victory over Spain would also send France into a third consecutive World Cup final after reaching the last two editions in Russia and Qatar.

Spain, meanwhile, have emerged as one of the tournament’s standout teams, combining their trademark possession football with youthful energy. Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has been among the competition’s brightest performers as La Roja pursue a second World Cup title after their historic triumph in South Africa in 2010.

The semi-final also renews one of European football’s fiercest rivalries. The two countries have met only once previously at the FIFA World Cup, with France defeating Spain 3–1 in the Round of 16 at the 2006 tournament.

The match also comes less than two years after Spain edged France 2–1 in the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final before going on to lift the European title.

The winner of Tuesday’s clash will progress to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, while the defeated side will compete in the third-place playoff.