Strict disciplinarian Istvan Kovacs named referee for Argentina vs Jordan World Cup finale

Romanian referee Istvan Kovacs will take charge of Argentina’s Group J finale against Jordan at Arlington’s AT&T Stadium in Dallas, with the reigning world champions already assured of a place in the Round of 32.

Kovacs brings considerable pedigree to the assignment, having officiated more than 600 matches across club and international football. His résumé includes the 2022 Champions League semi-final between Manchester City and Real Madrid, the inaugural 2022 Conference League final, the 2024 Europa League final, and the 2025 Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan.

At international level, the 41-year-old served as fourth official at the 2022 World Cup and refereed two group stage matches at Euro 2024. At this summer’s tournament he also had the distinction of officiating the landmark 1,000th World Cup match, between Tunisia and Japan.

Kovacs carries a reputation as a strict disciplinarian. Across 604 games he has issued 3,154 bookings — an average of just over five per match — along with 206 red cards. He also holds a European Championship record for the most cards shown in a single game.

Assisting him will be fellow Romanians Mihai Marica and Ferencz Tunvogi. Dahane Beida of Mauritania has been assigned as Video Assistant Referee, with Jerson Santos of Angola named Reserve Assistant Referee.

For Argentina, the match is a formality after Lionel Messi inspired back-to-back victories to secure top spot in the group. Jordan, making their maiden World Cup appearance, are already confirmed to be exiting at the group stage and will be playing for pride in their final game at the tournament.