Danny Makkelie named referee for Morocco vs Haiti in World Cup 2026 Group C decider

Dutch referee Danny Makkelie has been appointed to oversee Morocco’s World Cup 2026 Group C finale against Haiti at Atlanta Stadium, with kick-off set for 5pm local time (11pm UK time) on Wednesday.

Makkelie, 43, is no stranger to high-stakes international football. This is his second World Cup, having officiated at Qatar 2022, where he handled Spain and Germany’s 1-1 group stage draw and Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Poland. He has also worked at the last two European Championships and refereed the 2020 Europa League final.

At this tournament, Makkelie has already taken charge of the United States’ 4-1 win over Paraguay, a match in which he issued six yellow cards. His fellow Dutchmen Hessel Steegstra and Jan de Vries will run the lines, while Portugal’s João Pinheiro serves as fourth official and Bruno Jesus as reserve assistant referee.

The match carries significant weight for Morocco. The Atlas Lions remain in contention for top spot in Group C but must either better Brazil’s result against Scotland in Miami or overhaul their goal difference to claim first place. Haiti, the only side already eliminated following their defeat to Brazil on Friday, have nothing to play for beyond pride.

With Brazil leading the group after two matches and all four sides still mathematically involved in the top-two race — bar Haiti — Wednesday’s simultaneous kick-offs promise a tense conclusion to Group C.