Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed to officiate Portugal Uzbekistan World Cup clash

Moroccan international referee Jalal Jayed has been appointed by FIFA to officiate the match between Portugal and Uzbekistan, part of the second round of Group K fixtures at the 2026 World Cup, scheduled for June 23 in Houston.

This appointment confirms the confidence the world governing body has placed in Moroccan refereeing during this edition of the tournament. Jalal Jayed had already taken charge of a match on the opening day of the competition, refereeing Germany’s clash with Curaçao in Group E.

The meeting between Portugal and Uzbekistan carries particular importance for both national teams in the race to qualify. On the opening matchday, Portugal was held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo, while Uzbekistan fell 3-1 to Colombia.

The match will be played at Houston’s NRG Stadium and will be the second outing for both teams in Group K, which also includes Colombia and DR Congo.