Gehad Grisha to officiate England, Panama clash

CAIRO – 22 June 2018: The FIFA Referees Committee has selected Egyptian referee, Gehad Grisha, to take charge of the England-Panama game on Sunday at group G in the World Cup.

Redouane Achik and Waleed Ahmed will assist Grisha, while Norbert Hauata will act as fourth official.

The Egyptian referee will officiate his first game at the World Cup during his first participation in the competition.

Grisha was among 36 referees including six Africans who were chosen to officiate at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Grisha, who received his international stripes in 2008, is one of the African continent’s experienced referees.

He refereed at the 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2017 African Cup of nations tournaments, 2015 CAF Champions League final, 2016 Olympic Games and 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

England hopes to achieve their second straight victory at the tournament and secure a spot in the second round as they defeat Tunisia 2-1 at their opening game thanks to two goals from their captain, Harry Kane.

On the other hand, Panama are searching for their first point during their first appearnace at the World Cup after losing to Belgium 3-0 at their opening game.