Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Alireza Faghani was at the centre of England’s 3-2 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 win over Mexico, with the Australian referee overseeing red cards, penalties and major flashpoints at Estadio Azteca.
The Iranian-born official, now representing Australia, handled one of the tournament’s most heated knockout matches as England survived Mexico’s late push in Mexico City.
The match came during a wild World Cup knockout spell, following Brazil’s loss of control in their World Cup exit against Norway.
Faghani Makes Early Mark
Faghani did not take long to become part of the story.
He booked England midfielder Declan Rice in the opening minute, one of the quickest yellow cards of this World Cup.
The second half brought even bigger decisions.
Faghani sent off Jarell Quansah in the 53rd minute after a studs-up challenge that sparked anger from the Mexico bench and led to a VAR check.
Penalties Add To The Drama
England were later awarded a penalty after Anthony Gordon was brought down by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel.
Harry Kane converted from the spot to give England a 3-1 lead, despite his team being down to 10 players.
Only minutes later, Faghani was involved in another major VAR-backed call.
This time, Mexico were awarded a penalty after Kane fouled inside the box, and Raul Jimenez scored to make it 3-2.
Who Is Alireza Faghani?
Faghani has been on FIFA’s international referees list since 2008.
He moved to Australia in 2019 and has since become a regular official in A-League matches.
The 48-year-old also refereed the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Final between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Australia has four match officials at the FIFA World Cup 2026: Faghani, assistant referees George Lakrindis and Andrew Lindsay, plus VAR official Shaun Evans.
Official tournament updates are available through FIFA.
