For the clash on Tuesday, November 4, between PSG and Bayern Munich, UEFA has decided: Maurizio Mariani, 43, will be the referee for the match. The Italian already has 12 Champions League matches under his belt, and above all… a well-established reputation.
Many yellow cards in sight! Mariani hands out cards like others distribute Pokémon cards: 4 yellows per match in the Champions League, well above the average. It’s safe to say that the evening is likely to be tense, and that even the slightest heavy tackle will be penalized. Good news: it protects the players… less good for those who like to “put their foot in.”
The reds, much rarer
If he is generous with yellows, the Italian is much less so with direct red cards: 0.08 reds per match, half the French average. A strict referee, but not hasty.
The second yellow? He does not hesitate
Mariani also knows how to press the “double sanction” button when necessary, but remains within the average: 0.08 second yellow per match. Warnings come first, expulsions only follow if the player insists. Clear message: don’t play with fire.
The detail that changes everything: penalties! This is THE number that sends shivers: 0.50 penalties per match! Well above Ligue 1. It’s safe to say that a penalty kick would not be surprising on Tuesday night. Both PSG and Bayern have been warned: the penalty area will be a trap zone.
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