Jesus Valenzuela to Referee Ivory Coast vs Norway Match on July 4

Jesus Valenzuela has been appointed as the referee for the knockout match between Ivory Coast and Norway on July 4, 2023, at Dallas Stadium. This round-of-32 clash marks a significant moment for both teams, with Ivory Coast making their first appearance in the tournament's latter stages.

Referee Profile: Jesus Valenzuela

The Venezuelan referee, aged 42, is known for his strict disciplinary approach. He has officiated over 387 professional matches, issuing an impressive 1,908 yellow cards and 115 red cards. Valenzuela's experience includes two World Cup group matches this summer, overseeing Australia's victory over Turkiye and Bosnia and Herzegovina's win against Qatar.

Valenzuela also officiated matches in the 2022 World Cup, including the goalless draw between England and the USA, as well as France's 3-1 win over Poland. His extensive international experience includes officiating in three Copa America tournaments and the Olympics.

Match Officials and VAR Team

Assisting Valenzuela will be compatriots Jose Urrego and Tulio Moreno, while the VAR duties will be handled by Paraguayan officials Juan Gabriel Benitez and Eduardo Cardozo. The team of officials is set to ensure a fair and exciting match as both teams vie for a place in the last-16.

Whoever emerges victorious from this encounter will face Brazil in the next round, following Brazil's late 2-1 victory over Japan at Houston Stadium on July 3.