Norway and Senegal will continue their 2026 World Cup campaigns with experienced Brazilian referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio to take charge of the Group I match.
He has already drawn attention at this tournament after setting a historic record by issuing 3 red cards during the opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
Main Referee Norway vs. Senegal: Wilton Sampaio
Wilton Sampaio is one of the most experienced and controversial referees in modern international football.
Known for his strict control and uncompromising officiating style, the Brazilian referee has built a reputation for heavy disciplinary action and strong in-game authority.
- Nationality: Brazil
- Age: 44
- FIFA-listed referee since: 2013
- 2026 FIFA World Cup: Opening match referee and Group I appointment
- Profession outside football: Elite CONMEBOL referee
Refereeing Style: "No-Nonsense Disciplinarian"
- Yellow cards: around 5.22 per match
- Red cards: around 0.15 per match
- VAR usage: Heavy reliance on VAR for key disciplinary decisions
He maintains tight control of matches from the opening minutes, often penalizing physical play early to prevent escalation.
Career Achievements
Wilton Sampaio has been a regular figure at the highest level of international football for more than a decade.
- 2018 FIFA World Cup: VAR official in Russia
- 2022 FIFA World Cup: On-field referee in Qatar, including England vs France quarter-final
- 2026 FIFA World Cup: Selected for opening match (Mexico vs. South Africa)
Career Controversies
- 2026 World Cup (Mexico vs South Africa): Record 3 red cards in a single match, sparking global debate over his strict officiating style
- England vs France (2022 World Cup): Criticism over missed fouls and VAR-assisted decisions in a high-pressure knockout match
- Brazil domestic league: Frequently debated for over-intervention and strict disciplinary control
Full Officiating Crew for Norway vs. Senegal
FIFA has appointed the following officials for the Group I encounter:
- Referee: Wilton Sampaio (Brazil)
- Assistant Referee 1: Bruno Pires (Brazil)
- Assistant Referee 2: Bruno Boschilia (Brazil)
- Fourth Official: Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh (New Zealand)
- Reserve Assistant Referee: Isaac Trevis (New Zealand)
- VAR: Not officially confirmed
