By By Elizabeth Ugbo
FIFA has appointed Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between France and Spain on Tuesday, July 14, at Dallas Stadium. The match will kick off at 3:00 p.m. EDT, with both European giants battling for a place in the tournament’s final. FIFA confirmed the appointment on Monday through its official X account, naming the full team of match officials for one of the competition’s biggest fixtures.
FIFA Confirms Match Officials
The world football governing body announced Barton’s appointment for Match 101 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a post on its official X account, FIFA stated:
“The match officials for FIFA World Cup Match 101 have been appointed.”
Barton will lead the officiating team for the blockbuster encounter between France and Spain.
He will work alongside fellow Salvadoran David Moran as Assistant Referee One.
Argentina’s Antonio Pupiro will serve as Assistant Referee Two.
Meanwhile, Sweden’s Glenn Nyberg will be the fourth official, while compatriot Mahbod Beigi will act as the reserve assistant referee.
France Eye Another World Cup Final
France have enjoyed another impressive campaign by combining defensive discipline with attacking quality.
Captain Kylian Mbappé has inspired Les Bleus throughout the tournament as they chase another appearance in football’s biggest match.
The former champions seek a record-extending fifth FIFA World Cup final.
France won their first world title on home soil in 1998 before lifting the trophy again in Russia in 2018.
They also finished runners-up in 2006 and 2022.
A victory over Spain would send France into a third consecutive World Cup final after reaching the finals in Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022.
Spain Seek Return to the Biggest Stage
Spain have emerged as one of the tournament’s standout teams.
Their possession-based football, youthful squad and clinical finishing have impressed throughout the competition.
Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal has become one of Spain’s brightest stars during the tournament.
La Roja are chasing only their second FIFA World Cup final appearance.
Spain claimed their first world title in South Africa in 2010 after defeating the Netherlands 1-0 following extra time.
However, they have not returned to the final since that historic triumph.
A win against France would end a 16-year wait for another chance to compete for the World Cup trophy.
Rivalry Adds Extra Spice
Tuesday’s contest will renew one of Europe’s fiercest football rivalries.
The teams have met only once at the FIFA World Cup.
France came from behind to defeat Spain 3-1 in the Round of 16 at the 2006 tournament.
However, Spain claimed the most recent meeting between both nations.
La Roja defeated France 2-1 in the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final before going on to win the European Championship.
Winner Books Place in Final
The France versus Spain semi-final ranks among the biggest matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Both countries possess rich football traditions and championship pedigree.
The winner will advance to the World Cup final.
Meanwhile, the losing side will compete in the third-place playoff.
Football fans expect an entertaining contest between France’s experience and Spain’s exciting new generation.
