Concacaf has appointed Mexican referee César Arturo Ramos Palazuelos to officiate the pivotal qualifier between Guatemala and Panama. This match, part of the journey toward the FIFA World Cup 2026, will take place on Thursday, November 13, at the Estadio Manuel Felipe Carrera “El Trébol” in Guatemala City. Ramos, one of the most experienced referees in the region, will be supported by Mexican assistants Alberto Morín and Marco Bisguerra.
Match Details
The officiating team for this critical encounter will also include Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officials Guillermo Pacheco and Óscar Mejía Romo. Katia Itzel García will serve as the fourth official. All officials hail from Mexico, ensuring a consistent officiating standard.
César Ramos: A Notable Referee
Since earning his FIFA badge in 2014, César Arturo Ramos has officiated numerous high-stakes matches. His experience includes competitions like the Concacaf Champions League, the 2024 Copa América, and both the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Notably, he refereed the semifinal match between France and Morocco, which was a highlight of the tournament.
Ramos is known for his strong presence on the field and his ability to manage intense matches. He has faced scrutiny over some controversial decisions, such as during the 2019 Liga MX Apertura final between América and Monterrey. These moments have spurred debate among fans and analysts, showcasing the challenges referees face at high levels of play.
Guatemala vs. Panama: A Key Encounter
This match isn’t Ramos’s first opportunity to officiate the Guatemalan national team. He has previously overseen matches involving the Chapín team during elimination processes. His familiarity with their play style may provide an edge in this match-up.
- Match Date: November 13, 2023
- Kick-off Time: 9:00 PM (Panama Time)
- Location: Estadio Manuel Felipe Carrera “El Trébol”, Guatemala City
Guatemala, managed by Mexican coach Luis Fernando Tena, will face off against Panama, led by Danish coach Thomas Christiansen. Both teams are in urgent need of points as they strive for closer proximity to World Cup qualification. With the heightened tension surrounding this game, the experience of Ramos is key to ensuring a fair and transparent match.
The event will also see strict security measures enforced at the stadium to manage the anticipation surrounding this fixture. The rivalry between these Central American teams adds additional stakes to an already intense competition.
