Portuguese official selected for PSG vs Tottenham showdown in Udine
The UEFA Referees Committee has appointed Portuguese referee João Pinheiro to take charge of the highly anticipated 2025 UEFA Super Cup clash between UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain and UEFA Europa League titleholders Tottenham Hotspur.
The prestigious match will take place on Wednesday, August 13th at the Stadio Friuli in Udine, Italy, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 local time.
Experienced Official Takes Center Stage
At 37 years old, Pinheiro brings extensive international experience to European football’s curtain-raiser. The Portuguese official has been refereeing at the international level since 2016 and has officiated 68 UEFA competition matches throughout his distinguished career.
Pinheiro has consistently demonstrated his capability in high-pressure situations, regularly taking charge of both UEFA club competitions and international fixtures. His appointment for the Super Cup represents recognition of his consistent performance and reliability at the highest level of European football.
Recent High-Profile Assignments
During the 2024/25 season, Pinheiro showcased his expertise by officiating five matches during the knockout stages of UEFA club competitions. Most notably, he took charge of the UEFA Conference League semi-final second leg between Chelsea and Djurgården, which ended 1-0.
His involvement in major UEFA competitions was further highlighted when he served as fourth official at the 2025 UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Internazionale Milano, where PSG secured a commanding 5-0 victory.
Portuguese-Led Officiating Team
Pinheiro will be supported by a predominantly Portuguese officiating crew for the Super Cup:
Match Officials:
- Referee: João Pinheiro (Portugal)
- Assistant Referees: Bruno Jesus and Luciano Maia (both Portugal)
- Fourth Official: Elchin Masiyev (Azerbaijan)
Video Assistant Referee Team:
- VAR: Tiago Martins (Portugal)
- Additional VARs: Fábio Melo (Portugal), Pol van Boekel (Netherlands)
The inclusion of experienced VAR officials, including Netherlands’ Pol van Boekel, ensures comprehensive video review support for this crucial fixture.
Setting the Stage in Udine
The 2025 UEFA Super Cup will mark another chapter in the competition’s storied history, bringing together the champions of Europe’s two premier club competitions. The Stadio Friuli in Udine provides an intimate yet prestigious venue for this clash between French champions PSG and English Europa League winners Tottenham.
Significance of the Appointment
Pinheiro’s selection reflects UEFA’s confidence in Portuguese officiating standards and his personal track record of managing high-stakes encounters. His experience across various UEFA competitions, combined with his recent involvement in the Champions League final, positions him perfectly to handle the intensity and scrutiny that comes with the Super Cup.
The appointment also highlights the international nature of modern football officiating, with officials from Portugal, Azerbaijan, and the Netherlands collaborating to ensure the highest standards of match management.
Looking Ahead
As PSG and Tottenham prepare for their Super Cup showdown, both teams can be assured of experienced, professional officiating under Pinheiro’s guidance. His track record in UEFA competitions and recent high-profile assignments demonstrate his capability to manage the tactical nuances and emotional intensity that define European football’s biggest occasions.
The 2025 UEFA Super Cup promises to be a fascinating encounter between two clubs with contrasting European pedigrees, and João Pinheiro’s appointment ensures the match will be officiated to the highest international standards.
Match Details:
- Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025
- Venue: Stadio Friuli, Udine, Italy
- Kick-off: 21:00 local time
- Teams: Paris Saint-Germain vs Tottenham Hotspur
- Referee: João Pinheiro (Portugal)
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