Colombian Referee to Lead VAR in Chelsea vs. Fluminense Match
In an exciting announcement from the FIFA Referees Commission, Nicolás Gallo has been appointed as the VAR referee for the highly anticipated matchup between Chelsea FC and Fluminense . This match, which will feature Colombian players Jhon Arias , Kevin Serna , and Gabriel Fuentes , represents the first semifinal of the FIFA Club World Cup , a tournament that captures the attention of football fans worldwide.
The arbitration list for the Chelsea vs. Fluminense match includes:
- Central Judge: François Letexier (France)
- Assistant 1: Cyril Mugnier (France)
- Assistant 2: Mehdi Rahmouni (France)
- Fourth referee: Iván Barton (El Salvador)
- Fifth Referee: David Morán (El Salvador)
- VAR: Nicolás Gallo (Colombia)
- A-VAR: Jerome Brisard (France)
- S-VAR: Carlos del Cerro Grande (Spain)
On Tuesday, July 8 , football enthusiasts will gather at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey to witness the clash between two powerhouse teams. This semifinal not only determines who advances to the final but also embodies the spirit of football as a global sport.
Representing South America , Fluminense made it to this stage by overcoming formidable opponents, showcasing their prowess in the continental tournaments. Meanwhile, Chelsea FC, having secured a fourth-place finish in the Premier League , also brings significant experience and talent to the match-up.
Fluminense’s path to the semifinal has been marked by impressive performances, including a decisive 4-1 victory over Benfica in the round of 16 and a closely contested 2-1 win against Palmeiras in the quarterfinals. The Brazilian team has demonstrated a strong attack, led by their offensive threats such as Germán Cano , Jhon Arias , and Hercules . They have successfully blended youth with experience, a strategy that has been pivotal to their success thus far.
On the other hand, Chelsea is contending with some setbacks, as they will be missing key players Liam Deap and Levi Colwill , both of whom are unable to participate due to suspensions. However, their squad remains robust, equipped with top talents hungry for victory on this enormous stage.
The coaching strategies of both teams will play a crucial role in the outcome of the match. Enzo Maresca , Chelsea’s coach, has focused on bringing out the best in his squad, particularly given the stakes of this competition. Renato Gaúcho , the head coach of Fluminense, has successfully harnessed the talents of both young and veteran players, creating a dynamic team capable of taking on the European champions.
Aside from the action on the field, this match carries significant meaning for Colombian football . With Gallo serving as the VAR official, he becomes a representative of Colombian talent on such a prestigious international stage. His appointment not only highlights his skills but also the increasing recognition of Latin American referees in high-stakes matches globally.
For fans wishing to follow this thrilling encounter, social media platforms are buzzing with excitement, and updates are available. You can follow us on Facebook and join our WhatsApp Channel.
As the day approaches, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. The encounter between Chelsea FC and Fluminense serves as more than just a match; it is a celebration of football, showcasing diverse talents and cultures on the world stage.

