Meet the Controversial Referee for Netherlands - Morocco at the World Cup

While the 2022 World Cup in Qatar marked Sampaio's debut as a referee at the tournament, the Brazilian boasts extensive experience at the highest level. The 44-year-old South American previously officiated at the Copa América in 2016, 2019, and 2021, and has been on the international FIFA list since 2013.

Sampaio has overseen two matches at this World Cup so far. In the opening game, he immediately drew attention by issuing three yellow and three red cards. Two South African players were sent off, as was one player from host nation Mexico. However, the most notable moment was something entirely different.

During the opening match, Sampaio found himself in the spotlight primarily due to a convoluted explanation following a VAR intervention. The Brazilian had to clarify via the stadium microphone why a penalty kick was rescinded and a red card simultaneously issued, but his limited English primarily caused confusion in the stadium.

In his second match, between Norway and Senegal, he opted for a much more restrained approach, keeping all cards in his pocket. This immediately demonstrated Sampaio's unpredictable officiating style.

For the Netherlands, Sampaio is no stranger. At the previous World Cup, he officiated two matches involving the Dutch: the group stage clash against Senegal and the Round of 16 match against the United States. Both games ended in victory for the Netherlands. With his appointment for the match against Morocco, Sampaio will also become the first referee to officiate more than two World Cup matches for the Dutch national team.

The Dutch national team encountered few problems in previous matches under Sampaio's whistle. Against Senegal, only Matthijs de Ligt received a yellow card. Against the United States, Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners were booked. All of these were justified yellow cards. As a result, the Netherlands currently holds positive memories of the Brazilian arbiter.

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