Overview
- FIFA announced on June 28 that Slavko Vinčić will be the central referee for Mexico vs Ecuador at Estadio Ciudad de México, with the match set for Tuesday at 19:00.
- Vinčić will be assisted on the field by fellow Slovenes Tomaž Klančnik and Andraž Kovačič while Algerians Mustapha Ghorbal and Mokrane Gourari are assigned as fourth official and VAR reserve.
- Vinčić has been an international referee since 2010 and has recent high‑level experience in UEFA competitions, the 2022 World Cup, the 2025 Club World Cup and earlier 2026 World Cup games including Brazil vs Morocco and Algeria vs Jordan.
- FIFA’s selection emphasizes experience because this is a single‑elimination dieciseisavos de final match where refereeing calls can immediately decide which team advances.
- Organizers and fans can expect close scrutiny of the officiating in Mexico City and FIFA has not reported any changes to the appointed match officials since the announcement.