Vasco v Corinthians: CBF picks referee Coutinho dislikes for final | OneFootball

Vasco da Gama learned this Thursday (18th) who will be responsible for leading the final chapter of their journey in the Copa do Brasil. After a public hearing, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) decided that Wilton Pereira Sampaio will be the referee for the decisive match against Corinthians, next Sunday at Maracanã.

The choice adds an extra layer of tension to the clash, as it sets up an immediate reunion between the referee and the main technical leader of Vasco’s squad, Philippe Coutinho, after recent friction.

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The history of controversy

Wilton was the referee for the second leg of the semifinal against Fluminense, where Vasco qualified on penalties. Despite the positive result that night, the performance of the referee from Goiás generated strong discontent from Coutinho.

As he left the field, the number 11 complained forcefully about the referee’s attitude, criticizing the lack of dialogue and describing Wilton’s behavior as “disrespectful.” This recent history puts a spotlight on how disciplinary conduct will be handled on Sunday, especially in dealings with the players.

Full lineup

For the match that starts tied at 0-0, Wilton will be assisted by Bruno Boschilia and Victor Imazu as linesmen. Behind the scenes with technology, the CBF has appointed Marco Fazeka to operate the VAR, a vital role in a game where any mistake could cost the trophy and the million-dollar prize. The ball gets rolling from 6pm.

Wilton Pereira Sampaio referees the grand final – Photo: Cesar Greco/Ag Palmeiras

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.