SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 25: Referee Clment Turpin directs players during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between Paraguay and Australia at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on June 25, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lyndsay Radnedge/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)French referee Clement Turpin has been appointed as the centre referee for Ghana’s crucial Round of 32 clash against Colombia on Saturday, July 4, at Kansas City Stadium.The 43-year-old official is one of Europe’s most experienced referees, having taken charge of several high-profile matches, including the 2021 Europa League Final and the 2022 Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Liverpool.Turpin has been one of the standout referees at the 2026 World Cup, earning praise for his handling of England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia in the group stage. He was also the fourth official for the tournament opener between Mexico and South Africa.The Frenchman will be assisted by fellow countrymen Nicolas Danos and Cyril Gringore, who will serve as assistant referees. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team will be led by another French official, Jerome Brisard, with support from Willy Delajod and Benoit Millot.Turpin’s appointment adds another layer of intrigue to a match that has already been marked by controversy. The referee was at the centre of a dispute during the group stage when he awarded a penalty to England against Croatia following a VAR review, a decision that sparked debate among fans and pundits.However, Turpin is widely regarded as one of the most respected officials in world football, having also officiated at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, as well as multiple UEFA Champions League and Europa League matches.The match carries enormous significance for both nations. Ghana are aiming to reach the Round of 16 for the first time since 2010, while Colombia are seeking to continue their impressive campaign after topping Group K.Ghana will be hoping Turpin’s experience and composure will ensure a fair contest as they look to make history on the global stage.
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World Cup 2026: French referee Clement Turpin to officiate Ghana vs Colombia clash
