Experienced World Cup referee Felix Zwayer pulled up with cramp towards the end of the USA’s win over Australia in Seattle.
The German official, 45, required help from both the USA’s Folarin Balogun and Australia’s Aiden O’Neill, who stretched out his left leg after Zwayer fell to the turf.
Zwayer had just brandished a flurry of yellow cards at the end of what was a dominant victory for the USA at Lumen Field.
With just a couple of minutes of stoppage time remaining, Zwayer also required an energy gel – which was rushed onto the pitch by fourth official Katia Garcia.
Zwayer was able to get to his feet and see out the rest of the match, with the USA beating Australia 2-0 to reach the knockout stages.
The USA’s match against Australia started at noon local time in Seattle, with temperatures towards the end of the Group D clash reached around 26 degrees with 45 per cent humidity.
Every match at this 48-team World Cup is controversially featuring hydration breaks at the midway point of each half, allowing players to take on additional fluids.
It’s not unusual to see players suffer cramp towards the end of matches taking place in heat, while referees have to cover a lot of ground to keep up with play.
Zwayer is one of Europe’s top referees and took charge of the Euro 2024 semi-final between England and the Netherlands as well as the 2025 Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham.
