Johannesburg - South African referee Victor Gomes is set to take charge of his second match in the Fifa World Cup on Thursday evening when Japan square off with Spain in a Group E encounter at Khalifa International Stadium.
Gomes has been a referee for years and has made a name for himself by being a no-nonsense official, thanks to his knack of churning out red cards.
But, it’s probably been this year that’s been the most rewarding, having been the referee in both the Africa Cup of Nations and CAF Champions League finals.
In both those matches, Gomes was assisted by his countryman Zakhele Siwela and Lesotho's Souru Phatšoane, while Salima Mukansanga was the fourth official.
The quartet clearly built a reputable partnership as they were all called-up for the World Cup and taking charge of the Group D match between France and Australia on November 22.
Thursday’s match is important for the group as Spain are top with four points, while Japan are second on three points after beating Germany.
The World Cup could serve as Gomes’ last dance in refereeing after reports emerged that he’s planning on hanging up his whistle later this year.
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However, after the news broke, following his last domestic game on home soil, reports also emerged that Caf was planning to convince him otherwise.
With Gomes turning 40 this month, he could officiate for seven more years considering that the PSL's official retirement age for officials is 47.
IOL Sport