Nicola Rizzoli has reflected on the ‘honour and pride’ felt in representing Italian football at the 2014 World Cup Final.
The Serie A match official was referee for Germany’s encounter with Argentina on Sunday night in Rio de Janeiro, ensuring Calcio had a run to the final even if the Italian national team went home in the group stages.
“It was a great emotion and a great satisfaction, a source of pride for Italy and for Italian football,” Rizzoli has told reporters since.
Nicola Rizzoli has reflected on the ‘honour and pride’ felt in representing Italian football at the 2014 World Cup Final.
The Serie A match official was referee for Germany’s encounter with Argentina on Sunday night in Rio de Janeiro, ensuring Calcio had a run to the final even if the Italian national team went home in the group stages.
“It was a great emotion and a great satisfaction, a source of pride for Italy and for Italian football,” Rizzoli has told reporters since.
“The match was difficult, but I have been greatly helped by the players and especially by my colleagues.
“A World Cup Final is not an easy game, but perhaps the most difficult moment psychologically was the disallowed goal for Gonzalo Higuain, which inevitably created some tension.
“Fortunately in the international arena, the level of Italian referees is known, the players trust us, we talk together and everything can be settled.
“I am very proud to have represented the Italian referees here at the World Cup and in the Final. To them and to my family, I dedicate this experience.”