The 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals will feature Argentina playing Switzerland, with João Pinheiro as the head referee. Pinheiro has been at the center of controversy in the past, including a Champions League semifinal match between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain.

Controversial Call

In the Bayern Munich vs. Paris Saint-Germain match, Pinheiro made a call that has been questioned by many. A free kick was awarded to Bayern, but it was later determined that a Bayern player had handled the ball, leading to a reversal of the call. This decision has been criticized by Bayern coach Vincent Kompany, who felt that the referee had made the wrong call.

The VAR protocol allows for video review of certain game-changing situations, but it did not apply in this case. However, starting with the 2026 World Cup, VAR can intervene to overturn a red card if a second yellow was shown in error.

Past Controversies

Pinheiro’s appointment as referee for the Argentina-Switzerland match has raised concerns due to his past controversies. There have been multiple officiating controversies in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including allegations of bias and questionable red cards.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.