FIFA have made changes to VAR ahead of the semi final clash between England and Argentina. This comes after 101 matches at this year's World Cup.

Lionel Messi will face England for the first time in his career later today whilst Tuchel looks to take England to it's second World Cup final.

With the deep history between the two great footballing nations, this game will need a strong officiating display to dilute the emotions.

Why FIFA Has Changed The VAR Setup

It has been reported that the VAR officials will be located within the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. It is understood that due to criticism regarding the standard of officiating has forced FIFA's hand in the relocation of the VAR team.

The decision will aim to reduce the time for VAR checks and improve the communication between the referee and the officials in the VAR team.

"There's a lot of drama that unfolds in these games, and look, when you are asking only four officials to manage what's going on on the field, it's very difficult on a field that's much bigger than an American football field." said Dan Hunt, Owner of FC Dallas and FIFA World Cup Organising Committee member.

Who Will Officiate England vs Argentina?

Moroccan born American referee Ismail Elfath will be the referee for today's clash. Elfath currently officiates in the MLS. Messi has never lost a match in which he has refereed but England will be hoping to change that record at 8pm UK time.

Linesman Corey Parker has also been selected. The American has refereed in the 2021 Olympics, 2022 World Cup and throughout this World Cup in North America. He has also been involved in Champions League games as a FIFA official.

On the opposite touchline, Kansas born 39 year old Kyle Atkins will run the line in his 2nd consecutive World Cup. Atkins started his duties in the MLS ages just 28. Whilst many players would be his age he was ruling them offside.

Fourth official Maurizio Mariani will be looking after the animated Argentina bench and Tuchel for up to 90 or 120 minutes.

In his 289 matches with the whistle he averages 4.81 yellow cards a game. In 2022, Mariani made his debut in the UEFA Champions League, expanding his experience in European competitions. Additionally, he was selected to referee in the 2024 Copa America, being the only European referee in the tournament, as part of a cooperation agreement between CONMEBOL and UEFA. 

Despite being the favourite to be the World Cup final referee, Mark Clattenburg claims he ‘would upset a lot of people.’