The clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich is fast approaching. This Wednesday, May 6, the two teams will meet at the Allianz Arena for the second leg of the 2025–2026 Champions League semi-final (kick-off at 9 p.m., broadcast on Canal+). After their spectacular 5–4 win in the first leg, Paris will need to confirm on hostile ground to secure a place in the final.
To officiate this match, UEFA has appointed João Pinheiro. At 38 years old, the Portuguese referee has 14 Champions League matches under his belt. He will be assisted by Mihai Marica, Ferencz Tunyogi, and François Boudikian, while João Pedro Silva Pinheiro will serve as the fourth official. On VAR duty, Dennis Johan Higler, Catalin Sorin Popa, and Paulus van Boekel will oversee video assistance.
A referee known for control and discipline
From a disciplinary standpoint, João Pinheiro tends to show yellow cards quickly, averaging 3.71 per match in the Champions League, slightly above French standards. On the other hand, he is far more measured when it comes to dismissals, with only 0.07 direct red cards per game, favoring game management and dialogue over heavy sanctions.
This approach is also reflected in second bookings and penalties. The Portuguese referee rarely issues second yellow cards (0.07 per match) and awards few penalties (an average of 0.14), both figures below those typically seen in France. This suggests a controlled style of officiating, aiming to manage the match without excessive radical decisions.
Finally, João Pinheiro has never officiated a PSG match before. However, he has refereed Bayern Munich twice, both resulting in victories: 3–1 against Slovan Bratislava (2024–2025) and 2–1 against PSV Eindhoven (2025–2026). A favorable record for the Bavarian side, though not necessarily a decisive trend.
Related Posts:
- Ex PSG Neymar’s Slap Sparks Major Controversy in Brazil
- The first image of PSG’s upcoming new home kit
- Gonçalo Ramos Set to Leave PSG Next Summer
- PSG Opt for an Unexpected Jersey in the Return Clash with Bayern
- PSG’s Busy Week: Bayern Clash and Ligue 1 Match at the Parc des Princes
- Bayern Munich vs PSG: A long list of absentees for the second-leg clash
