Elfath has such an imposing figure he can get away with not carding challenges almost all other referees would need to card for
??? Only one was given, surely - for the initial challenge by Anderson. I do think the optics got strange as he had already pulled the yellow (to calm Argentina that there would be a card, presumably) but then had to quite a lot of management and pointing ... with the card in his hand. I see where you thought multiple cautions were issued.
That was only 1 yellow card, I think. He was just also waving it around while trying to calm things down
So, those who think there’s nothing to question. Still feel that way? I repeat nothing major “wrong call,” but i dont think he’s reeling it in enough to keep a controlled football match. Too many handbags still occurring in ‘38 to think he’s doing well.
Feedback here was he tended to be far from play in the last game. Seems to be closer to action in this match.
Do you expect Argentina and England to play a "controlled" World Cup semifinal? Like, this is supposed to be emotionally charged and physical. It isn't a kickabout in the park. The job is to keep them from killing each other, and ideally to do that at 11 v 11.
43' good no-call on England dribble; in spite of correct call, PBP questioned Elfath for not being close enough
The question is not "are there handbags" the question is "would there be more or fewer handbags with a different approach" This game was always going to have handbags. I think Elfath is doing a tremendous job of calming things instead of reacting (and cautioning) in ways that would increase tensions. So far I think his approach is proving correct.
I genuinely wonder what some on this board expect from this game and the referee? In this World Cup Semi Final do you expect him to take a strict approach and punish every yellow card worthy incident with a card. To come down harshly on everything. For their not to be pushing and shoving and players going at each other verbally? If you do you will not be happy with the referee performance. It will be a miracle if he doesn't have to send someone off.
Aside from that weird incident near the touchline after the break, he’s managed every situation phenomenally. The early foul on Bellingham, the corner kick, the mass cons, the PO set up, the two cards so far. He’s been firmly in control at every test and the players are playing because of it. You can’t be scared of big emotions and flare ups. He’s shown that he isn’t. Top notch first half.
i like football. Not seen enough of it here. Still irritated that “ doubting the ref doesnt have a clue “. I’ll let it go.
45' no-call as Bellingham falls theatrically outside of Arg box 46' no-call after Arg bench throws ball onto field to delay Eng throw (why let this go?) 48' no-call as Enzo falls near benches 49' FK to England as James comes in hard while Arg is controlling ball in the air 49' Halftime prevents England CK First half was full of tricky decisions; can't imagine it gets easier.