Anthony Taylor, a prominent English Premier League referee, has been appointed by FIFA to officiate the pivotal Group F showdown between Mamelodi Sundowns and Fluminense.
Scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium, this match carries immense weight, and Taylor's vast experience on the global stage makes him a fitting choice.
The 46-year-old official, a FIFA badge holder since 2013, boasts an impressive resume, having presided over major events like the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup final and the 2022/23 UEFA Europa League final. He made his Premier League debut in 2010 and was quickly elevated to the Select Group.
HOW PREMIER LEAGUE REFEREE ANTHONY TAYLOR ISSUED 14 YELLOW CARDS IN ONE MATCH
While his career is marked by consistency, Taylor also made headlines last year in a Chelsea vs. Bournemouth match, setting a Premier League record by dishing out 14 yellow cards, eight to Chelsea alone.
For Mamelodi Sundowns, the equation is simple: win or go home. Having secured an opening 1-0 win against Ulsan Hyundai but then enduring a valiant 4-3 loss to Borussia Dortmund, Masandawana must defeat Fluminense to advance.
Fluminense, conversely, enters with a slight edge, needing only a draw to secure progression.
However, their strong tournament form, including a goalless draw against Dortmund and a convincing 4-2 victory over Ulsan, suggests they will be gunning for all three points to secure top spot. Taylor's appointment heightens the drama for what is set to be a fiercely contested battle for knockout stage qualification.
