With the confidence of FIFA…the Emirati refereeing duo continues to shine in the 2026 World Cup

The Emirati refereeing duo, Omar Al Ali and Mohammed Ahmed Yousef, represent the Emirati referee in the match between Canada and South Africa held in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup, in a new confirmation of international confidence in Emirati competencies.

Omar Al Ali participates as a fourth referee, while Mohamed Ahmed Youssef takes over the task of reserve assistant referee, as part of a team led by Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro at “Sophie” Stadium in Los Angeles. This assignment from the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) comes after the distinguished performance of the duo in managing the match between Egypt and New Zealand during the group stage, to continue their honorable presence in the largest international football forum.
On the other hand, the name of Canada captain Alphonso Davies was not included again in the starting lineup for his team, which will face South Africa in the round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup, but he was among the substitutes, while suffering from an injury to the hamstring muscles, amid speculation about his physical readiness.

South Africa returned starting midfielder Teboho Mokoena to the starting lineup, after he missed the last match against South Korea in Monterrey due to suspension.

This is the only change in the squad, as Mokoena replaces defensive midfielder Thalente Mbatha.

Canada, co-hosting the tournament, made four changes, after Moise Pompito replaced Luc de Fougeulle in the heart of defence, while Steven Eustaquio recovered from injury to replace Mathieu Choinier in midfield.

Liam Miller enters the lineup instead of Ali Ahmed in another change in midfield, while Kyle Larin gives up his place in attack in favor of Tani Oluwasyi.

Formations
South Africa: Ronwen Williams, Aubrey Modiba, Mbekizele Mbokazi, Khuliso Mudau, Emi Okon, Teboho Mokwena, Sifilo Sithole, Oswin Abulis, Relebuhel Mofokeng, Thapelo Maseko, and Evidence Makgoba.

Canada: Maxime Crepeau, Alistair Johnston, Moise Pompeto, Derek Cornelius, Richie Larrea, Stephen Eustaquio, Nathan Saliba, William Miller, Tajon Buchanan, Jonathan David, and Tani Oluwasyi.