The referee of the European League final, Bjorn Kuipers, shared his expectations from the match between Marcel and Atletico.
FIFA referee from the Netherlands Bjorn Kuypers believes that each final is remarkable in its own way.
"Appointment for the Europa League final was a fantastic surprise for me, Kuipersa official website of UEFA. - This is a recognition not only of my work, but also of the merit of my entire team. I worked on eight finals in my career, and each of them was special. When I was just starting to judge, I did not even think about the top level. But I was lucky, because I learned from very good referees. Support of close friends is of no less importance. I was particularly helped by Marlis's wife, and also son and daughter. They know how much judging means to me, and therefore they will support me absolutely in any situation ".
"Now the players have become stronger and more technical, the game is faster, and the arbitrators need to adapt to this. I believe that today the referees are the same athletes as footballers. In addition, tactical preparation plays an important role. It is important to know how the teams play, then you are well aware that they can be expected from a particular match ".
"Final with crowded stands - a difficult test. You have to be strong and confident about everything you do. But the very preparation for the final is the same as for the rest of the matches. We will go to the field before the game to feel the atmosphere, then we'll go to the locker room to concentrate, and then we will try our best to do our work ".
Kuipers in 2013 already judged the final match of the Europa League between Benfica and Chelsea, and in 2014, served the final of the Champions League Real Madrid - Atletico.
Recall, the final of the Europa League will be held on Wednesday, May 16 in Lyon. The online broadcast of the match will be available on Football. ua at 21:35.
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