I know the 40-year-old referee who will referee a crucial match in Group D of the 2024 Copa América.
The Conmebol Referees Commission appointed the Venezuelan referee Jesús Valenzuela for the crucial match Brazil vs. Colombia, on the third date of group D of the Copa América 2024, in a game in which the two teams classified for the quarterfinals and in what position will be known.
Valenzuela, 40, is considered one of the continent’s most successful referees. He officiated Argentina’s opening match, which they won 2-0 against Canada, on June 20.
Now, the Venezuelan will deliver justice in the group D classic, in a match that will take place on Tuesday, July 2 at Levi’s Stadium, in Santa Clara, California.
Jesús Valenzuela will be assisted by his compatriots Jorge Urrego and Alberto Ponte, as assistant linesmen. The fourth official will be Ecuadorian Augusto Aragón. While the VAR will be directed by Argentine Mauro Vigliano.
Valenzuela’s experience can be summed up in matches he has directed in continental tournaments such as the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Sudamericana, as well as in FIFA competitions, such as the recent 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The Venezuelan is remembered in Colombia, as he refereed the 2021 Copa América semi-final against Argentina, in the memorable penalty shootout in which Emiliano ‘Dibu’ Martínez spoke to the Colombians before the kicks, saving Dávinson Sánchez and Yerry Mina.
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