)
Jude Bellingham was fined in 2021 for a comment he made about the Felix Zwayer's integrity
The upcoming Euro 2024 semifinal showdown between England and the Netherlands is set to be officiated by German referee Felix Zwayer, amidst renewed attention following controversial comments from England midfielder Jude Bellingham.
Zwayer, who has been in charge of several high-profile matches throughout this tournament, including Italy v Albania, Turkey v Portugal and Romania v Holland, finds himself at the center of attention once again.
This decision by UEFA to appoint Zwayer for such a pivotal match comes despite past controversies surrounding the referee.
)
09:00 - 09.07.2024
The five reasons Arsenal want Ricardo Calafiori to solve their long-standing left back problem
The five reasons Arsenal are opting to sign Italy's Euro 2024 breakthrough star Ricardo Calafiori.
Bellingham, known for his outspoken nature, faced scrutiny after implying corruption in a previous match involving Zwayer.
The midfielder's comments stemmed from a contentious decision during Borussia Dortmund’s clash with Bayern Munich in December 2021, where he questioned the integrity of the officiating.
The German referee has a history that includes a suspension in 2005 for accepting a bribe, a fact that has not escaped scrutiny in light of Bellingham's remarks.
Despite Zwayer's past, UEFA and the Football Association have not publicly commented on the implications of his appointment for the semifinal.
)
08:00 - 09.07.2024
EURO 2024: 'Orange wall' advantage for the Netherlands against England on Wednesday
England prepare to face Netherlands for the semi-final on Wednesday
Wednesday's match promises to be a charged affair on and off the pitch, with England aiming to secure a place in the final for the second consecutive Euros.
Zwayer's performance will undoubtedly be under intense scrutiny, given the stakes involved and the backdrop of previous controversies.
As Bellingham, Netherlands and the football world eagerly awaits this semi-final clash, all eyes will be on how Zwayer manages the game and how Bellingham and his England teammates respond under his officiating.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)