In a football match, player substitutions are a common occurrence due to exhaustion, injuries, or tactical decisions by the coach. Coaches themselves, although infrequently, can receive cards for misconduct on the sidelines, indicating their susceptibility to disciplinary issues.
However, the substitution of a referee during a football game is a rare event. While such incidents are infrequent, there have been a few noteworthy occurrences. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and recall five instances when referees were replaced during football matches:
1. La Liga Match: Real Madrid vs Sevilla (26th February 2024)
– Referee Isidro Diaz de Mera Escuderos sustained a calf muscle injury while running.
– Despite attempting to continue, Escuderos eventually informed the fourth official about his discomfort.
– Following basic treatment on the sidelines, the fourth official, Fernandez Buergo, took charge of on-field duties for the remainder of the game.
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2. Serie A Match: Lecce vs Inter (February 24th, 2024)
– Referee Daniele Doveri suffered an injury during the match, leading to the fourth official taking over officiating duties.
3. Serie A Match: Bologna vs Verona (22nd February 2024)
– Referee Rosario Abisso sprained his foot early in the match, resulting in a temporary stoppage.
– After receiving treatment, Abisso switched communication equipment with fourth official Giacomo Camplone.
4. EPL: Stoke vs Leicester (3rd November 2017)
– Referee Bobby Madley substituted himself off during the game between Stoke and Leicester.
5. Serie A: Empoli vs Fiorentina (22nd August 2023)
– Referee Matteo Marchetti suffered a calf strain during the second half at the Stadio Castellani.
– Despite receiving treatment, Marchetti was unable to continue, leading to a substitution with fourth official Juan Luca Sacchi taking over officiating duties.