"Yesterday I met with [FIFA president Gianni] Infantino in Doha and I had a cordial meeting. We had some doubts regarding certain conditions the AFC had set, which we considered impractical, especially regarding the referees. They have imposed to have foreign referees and we have great trust in Italian referees. We didn't feel like complying to this, let's say, AFC request."
"I spoke personally with [chairman of FIFA Referees Committee Pierluigi] Collina and he gave me extensive assurances about the quality of Asian referees; he has already in mind one or several referees of very high level that can officiate the game. That has reassured us. This condition, which was the most difficult to accept, we will accept. We will work out the rest in the coming days regarding the organisation of the game."
AC Milan and Como will play in Perth on February 8 with Asian referees officiating after Serie A accepted conditions set by the Asian Football Confederation. Serie A president Ezio Maria Simoncelli met FIFA president Gianni Infantino and expressed doubts about AFC requirements, particularly the imposition of foreign referees and trust in Italian officials. Pierluigi Collina personally provided assurances about the quality of Asian referees and identified suitable high-level candidates, which reassured Serie A. The refereeing condition, initially the hardest to accept, will be accepted. The match has approval from both clubs, the FIGC, UEFA, FIFA, the AFC and Football Australia; logistical details will be finalised.
Read at ESPN.com
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