Wilmar Roldán is under significant pressure as he prepares to referee the critical match between Palmeiras and LDU. The match is scheduled for Thursday, October 30, at 21:30 (Brasília time). As a seasoned referee, Roldán has officiated 13 matches involving Palmeiras in his career.
Wilmar Roldán’s Qualifications
The 45-year-old referee has a notable career. He has officiated at two World Cups and three Copa Libertadores finals. His experience is extensive and respected within football circles.
Concerns from Abel Ferreira
Palmeiras’ head coach, Abel Ferreira, has expressed concerns regarding officiating standards. Following a recent match against Cruzeiro, he stated, “I hope we don’t see the same issues as during the matches against Boca Juniors, where the referee was overly controlling.” Ferreira’s comments reflect his anxiety about maintaining fair play during crucial matches.
Statistics and Officiating Style
- In the current Copa Libertadores season, Roldán has refereed seven matches.
- Average cards per match: 6.2.
- Total fouls called: 158, averaging 22.5 per match.
Roldán’s carding tendencies have raised alarms for both teams. In prior encounters, he has officiated matches leading to Palmeiras’ elimination by Boca Juniors in 2018 and 2023.
Concerns from LDU
Eduardo Álvarez, director for LDU, has also voiced apprehension about Roldán’s disciplinary record. He highlighted that the Colombian referee often exceeds in handing out sanctions, which could adversely impact LDU’s game strategy under coach Tiago Nunes.
Match Dynamics
Roldán will be supported by assistants Jhon Gallego and David Fuentes, with David Rodriguez in charge of VAR. In the first leg of this semifinal, LDU secured a dominant 3-0 victory against Palmeiras.
As the pressure mounts ahead of this pivotal match, the officiating will be closely scrutinized by both teams.
