Kansas City [US], June 26 (ANI): Katia Itzel Garcia has made historical past by turning into the primary Mexican lady to officiate a match on the FIFA World Cup, marking a major milestone in worldwide soccer officiating.
Garcia took cost through the Netherlands vs Tunisia match on the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Thursday (native time), the place she was seen carrying a custom-designed uniform that includes the colors of the Mexican flag, symbolising nationwide satisfaction on the worldwide stage, in response to ESPN FC’s X deal with.
Her appointment is being seen as a landmark second for Mexican refereeing and for the rising illustration of girls in elite soccer officiating on the world degree.
Coming to the competition, the Netherlands sealed high spot in Group F with a commanding 3-1 victory over Tunisia of their ultimate FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match at Kansas City Stadium on June 25 (native time).
The Dutch completed the group stage unbeaten with two wins and a draw, whereas Tunisia bowed out of the event with out a victory.
The Netherlands made a dream begin, taking the lead in simply the third minute. Denzel Dumfries drilled a harmful low cross into the field, and Tunisia captain Ellyes Skhiri inadvertently turned the ball into his personal internet whereas trying to clear the hazard.
Just 4 minutes later, Ronald Koeman’s facet doubled their benefit. Virgil van Dijk saved a nook alive inside the realm earlier than establishing Brian Brobbey, who made no mistake from shut vary to attain his third aim of the event and put the Dutch firmly in management.
The Oranje continued to dominate possession for the rest of the primary half, with Frenkie de Jong and Tijjani Reijnders dictating play in midfield as Tunisia struggled to create significant alternatives. Tunisia confirmed better urgency after the break and pulled a aim again within the 54th minute.
Hazem Mastouri rose highest to satisfy Hannibal Mejbri’s nook and powered a header past the goalkeeper to provide the African facet hope. However, the Netherlands shortly restored their two-goal cushion.
In the 62nd minute, Reijnders delivered an inviting nook and defender Jan Paul van Hecke headed dwelling from shut vary to attain his first worldwide aim and successfully put the outcome past doubt.
The Dutch comfortably managed the closing levels, denying Tunisia any likelihood of one other comeback to wrap up a convincing victory.
The win noticed the Netherlands end atop Group F with seven factors, forward of Japan and Sweden, who additionally progressed to the Round of 32 following a 1-1 draw.
Tunisia exited the event after ending backside of the group with one level. (ANI)