FIFA’s refereeing director defended official Ivan Barton after France’s coach questioned his semifinal capability. Deschamps expressed doubts about the referee’s suitability for the high-stakes World Cup match. Collina affirmed that FIFA’s referees are world-class and capable of officiating any game. The controversy stemmed from a penalty awarded to Spain in their victory over France. France will now play in the third-place playoff after their semifinal defeat.
