CBF Appoints Alex Gomes Stefano as Referee for Atlético vs Sport Clash at Arena MRV
Attractive Lineup Announced for Atlético vs. Sport Showdown at Arena MRV
CBF Releases Refereeing Team for Crucial Match
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has announced the refereeing lineup for the rescheduled Brazilian Championship clash between Atlético and Sport. The match is set to kick off on Wednesday evening at 7:00 PM at Arena MRV. Alex Gomes Stefano, a seasoned referee from Rio de Janeiro, will officiate the eagerly anticipated game.
Experience and Controversy in the Refereeing Team
Accompanying Stefano will be assistant referees Rodrigo Figueiredo Henrique Corrêa, also hailing from Rio, and Alex Sandro Quadros Thomé from Roraima. This marks the fifth time Atlético will play under Stefano’s supervision in this year’s Brasileirão. Unfortunately for the club, their record in matches he has officiated is not favorable: three losses and a single win against Ceará on the road.
Stefano’s History with Atlético’s Matches
Stefano’s history with Atlético includes some memorable and controversial moments. In a prior match against Grêmio at Arena MRV, he drew criticism by sending off four players, equally from both teams. The most disputed incident involved Atlético’s Junior Alonso and Grêmio’s Dodi towards the game’s end.
The video assistant referee, Caio Max Augusto Vieira, suggested reconsidering his decision, but Stefano stood firm, maintaining expulsions that analysts later deemed unnecessary, as they felt the actions warranted merely a yellow card. VAR communication relayed an urgent plea: “Alex, Alex, Alex, pay attention to the VAR, man. Come on, Alex.” Nonetheless, Stefano’s reply remained, “I will stick with my decision!”
Previous Controversies Against Ceará and Others
Stefano also made headlines during Atlético’s win over Ceará for not dismissing midfielder Diego after a dangerous play involving Rony. Apart from the Ceará clash, he has officiated Atlético’s matches against Palmeiras and Vitória, further cementing his connection to the Minas Gerais club.
Atlético’s Quest for a Strong Home Performance
Heading into the match, Atlético is eager for a strong performance at their home ground. Currently, the team holds the 15th position in the Brasileirão standings with 29 points, a precarious four points above Vitória, the first team in the relegation zone. Success at Arena MRV could prove crucial in their campaign for stability this season.
