Brazil's Wilton Sampaio has been appointed to take charge of the Group I fixture between Norway and Senegal at the FIFA World Cup 2026, as both sides look to secure their place in the knockout rounds.

Norway enter the match on a high after a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq in their opening game, while Senegal are seeking to recover from a defeat against France. With qualification on the line for both teams, the stakes could hardly be higher.

A referee already in the spotlight

Sampaio arrives at this fixture with his name firmly in the tournament conversation. He officiated the opening match of the 2026 World Cup between Mexico and South Africa — a contest that produced three red cards and set a feisty tone for the competition.

Since that opener, four more red cards have been shown across the tournament, bringing the running total to seven. For context, the all-time record for dismissals at a single World Cup stands at 28, set at the 2006 edition in Germany.

Sampaio will be assisted on the touchlines by fellow Brazilians Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilia. New Zealand's Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh takes the fourth official role, with compatriot Isaac Trevis serving as reserve assistant referee.

An experienced hand

The Brazilian official brings considerable experience to the role. Before this tournament, he had refereed more than 250 matches across domestic and international football, including England's defeat to France at the previous World Cup.

Sampaio also holds a place in the history of the game as a member of FIFA's inaugural Video Assistant Referee team, introduced at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

After the drama of his opening assignment, Sampaio will be hoping for a calmer evening — though with Norway and Senegal both desperate for points, another lively night cannot be ruled out.