Controversial Referee Assigned to Oversee Upcoming Choque-Rei Match
The upcoming Choque-Rei match between Palmeiras and São Paulo is set to be officiated by referee Matheus Delgado Candançan. This game is part of the fifth round of the Campeonato Paulista, scheduled for Saturday, March 24, at 18:30, taking place at the Arena Barueri.
Controversial Referee Matheus Candançan
At just 27 years old, Candançan has garnered attention for his officiating skills, notably during a 2024 Choque-Rei match where controversy erupted. In a contentious game that ended in a 1-1 draw, significant complaints arose from São Paulo regarding critical refereeing decisions. They challenged the failure to expel Palmeiras player Richard Ríos after a harsh tackle on Pablo Maia and the omission of a penalty for Luciano despite a VAR review.
The refereeing body acknowledged mistakes in Candançan’s performance during that match, intensifying the rivalry between the two clubs. Following the game, players and officials from São Paulo protested, illustrating the high tensions surrounding these fixtures.
Match Official Details
The officiating team for this clash includes:
- Main Referee: Matheus Delgado Candançan
- Assistants: Neuza Ines Back, Alex Ang Ribeiro
- Fourth Official: Guilherme Francisco Maciel da Silva e Rosário
- VAR Officials: Thiago Duarte Peixoto (head), Herman Brumel Vani, Rafael Gomes Feliz da Silva (assistants)
Historical Context of Refereeing Issues
The rivalry between São Paulo and Palmeiras has a history of contentious officiating, with frequent disputes over critical calls since 2021. Incidents involving penalties, disallowed goals, and overlooked expulsions have fueled suspicion and distrust between the clubs. Each new match intensifies this scrutiny, marking every encounter as a significant test for match officials.
As both teams prepare for this thrilling encounter, all eyes will be on the officials, particularly Candançan, whose controversial past has set high stakes for the upcoming Choque-Rei.
