Canada will begin its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina with experienced Argentine referee Facundo Tello set to officiate the Group B encounter. Tello, one of South America’s most recognisable match officials, has been entrusted with overseeing the fixture as both teams look to make a strong start to their tournament journey.
The 43-year-old referee has built a reputation for maintaining strict control on the pitch and is no stranger to football’s biggest stages. A FIFA-listed referee since 2019, Tello officiated at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and was also selected for UEFA Euro 2024. His growing international profile has made him a regular choice for high-stakes fixtures across global competitions.
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For the Canada-Bosnia and Herzegovina clash, Tello will be assisted by fellow Argentinians Juan Pablo Belatti and Gabriel Chade. Saudi Arabia’s Khalid Al-Turais has been appointed as the fourth official, while Mohammed Al-Bakry will serve as the reserve assistant referee.
A really nice moment here.
— Devin Heroux (@Devin_Heroux) June 12, 2026
Bosnia and Herzegovina fans get caught up in the middle of Canada’s March to the Match.
And they’re being met with high fives as they pass through the sea of red. pic.twitter.com/Fq79K5tsNy
The video review team will be headed by Argentina’s Hernan Mastrangelo, with Uruguay’s Antonio Garcia and Nicaragua’s Tatiana Guzman providing VAR support.
Tello brings major tournament experience
Tello’s résumé includes several high-profile international assignments. During the 2022 World Cup, he handled group-stage matches involving Switzerland, Cameroon, South Korea and Portugal before taking charge of Portugal’s quarterfinal defeat to Morocco.
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His ability to manage pressure-filled contests has helped establish him among FIFA’s trusted officials.
Spotlight on Canada’s World Cup opener
Canada enters the tournament hoping to capitalize on home support and make an impact in Group B, while Bosnia and Herzegovina aims to upset the hosts and secure valuable early points. With both sides eager to start positively, attention will also be on Tello and his officiating team as they oversee one of the opening fixtures of the expanded 48-team World Cup. FIFA has selected a record pool of referees and officials for the tournament, reflecting the increased number of matches and teams involved.
