Introduction to the important sporting event
Saudi football fans will be glued to their screens this Monday evening for a highly anticipated clash between Saudi football giants Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli, in the 20th round of the Saudi Professional League. In a move to ensure the highest standards of refereeing in such crucial matches, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's Referees Committee has assigned the task of officiating the game to Argentinian international referee Yael Falcon Perez, a name familiar to Saudi football fans and whose record includes a unique humanitarian story.
Yael Falcon's background in Saudi stadiums
Yael Falcon, 37, is no stranger to the Roshan League, as this was his fifth match in the competition. He began his career in Saudi Arabia during the 2023/24 season and has since officiated important matches for top teams, earning the trust of officials and fans. He previously refereed the "Clásico" between Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli in the 11th round of last season, which ended in a 3-1 victory for Al-Hilal. He also officiated another Al-Hilal match that same season against Al-Fayha, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The Saudi Football Federation's policy of bringing in an experienced foreign referee for major matches is designed to ensure impartiality and reduce pressure on local referees, reflecting the importance of the game and its impact on the title race.
A heroic story outside the green rectangle
Beyond his whistle and colored cards, Falcon gained international fame and respect in 2017 thanks to his heroic act. During an Argentine third division match between San Miguel and Defensores Unidos, player Izias Olariaga collapsed unconscious after a heavy collision and, in a critical moment, swallowed his tongue. Falcon, who also works as a lifeguard, didn't hesitate to intervene immediately before the medical team arrived, administering the necessary first aid that saved the player's life. This act not only highlighted his courage but also demonstrated his composure and ability to handle difficult situations under pressure, a crucial characteristic of a successful referee.
His international career and refereeing records
Yael Falcon received his FIFA international badge in 2022, opening doors for him to officiate important continental and international matches. He boasts an impressive refereeing record, having officiated over 255 matches throughout his career, during which he issued 1,321 yellow cards, 66 red cards (direct or after two yellow cards), and awarded 70 penalties. In the Saudi Professional League (SPL), he has officiated four matches, issuing 12 yellow cards and awarding two penalties, with no red cards, demonstrating his ability to control matches without resorting to excessive punishment.
Yael Falcon's stats in the Roshen League:
- Matches: 4
- Yellow cards: 12
- Red cards: 0
- Penalty kicks: 2
