Referee Daniele Orsato, overseeing PSG’s Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund, was visibly emotional as he officiated his final European match. The Italian, set to retire after the Euros this summer, showed his sentiments at the conclusion of the game at Parc des Princes. Orsato, with a career spanning years and notable matches under his belt, bid farewell to his role with the whistle.
Borussia Dortmund’s remarkable victory over PSG marked Orsato’s last appearance as a Champions League official. Despite this being his swan song, he drew acclaim for his performance, notably making a crucial decision in the second half by accurately awarding a free-kick instead of a penalty. This call, involving a marginal foul on Ousmane Dembele, showcased Orsato’s precision as replays confirmed the tackle by Mats Hummels was just outside the penalty area.
Orsato’s career reached a pinnacle when he officiated the 2020 Champions League final, where PSG faced Bayern Munich in an empty Estadio Da Luz. Throughout the current season, the 45-year-old has continued to oversee Serie A matches.
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While Orsato has received accolades, his career has not been without controversy. Notably, in 2019, he officiated a European clash between Manchester United and PSG, issuing ten cards and sending off Paul Pogba in front of the Old Trafford crowd.
Criticism has also been directed towards Orsato, with Real Madrid’s Luka Modric expressing dissatisfaction with his refereeing during Argentina’s victory over Croatia in the World Cup semi-final in Qatar. Modric criticized Orsato’s decision-making, particularly regarding a penalty call, labeling it as one of the worst refereeing performances he had encountered.