Here are USMNT vs. Paraguay referees for World Cup opener in LA
Seth VertelneyLOS ANGELES — All eyes will be on SoFi Stadium on Friday night, as the U.S. men's national team kicks off its World Cup journey against Paraguay.
The players will obviously be the main focus, but there is always the chance that one or two referees will become part of the story as well.
The man in the middle will be Danny Makkelie, a 43-year-old Dutchman with plenty of experience.
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Makkelie is used to enforcing the rules in various elements of his life, having also worked as a police officer for many years.
Makkelie will be assisted by fellow Dutchmen Hessel Steegstra and Jan De Vries, who will serve as linesmen. Meanwhile, Carlos Del Cerro Grande from Spain will be the video assistant referee (VAR).
Who are USMNT vs. Paraguay referees?
The full list of referees for USMNT-Paraguay is as follows:
- Referee: Danny Makkelie (Netherlands)
- Assistant referee 1: Hessel Steegstra (Netherlands)
- Assistant referee 2: Jan De Vries (Netherlands)
- Fourth official: Yusuke Araki (Japan)
- Reserve assistant referee: Jun Mihara (Japan)
- Video Assistant Referee (VAR): Carlos Del Cerro Grande (Spain)
- Assistant VAR: Dennis Higler (Netherlands)
- Support VAR: Khamis Almarri
What time is USMNT vs. Paraguay?
The USMNT and Paraguay will kick off at 9 p.m. ET at SoFi Stadium.
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