I think we can definetely scrach Mr. Ivanov's name from the referee list. He clearly lost control of the match. It was so painful to watch through the end. I have been in such a situtuation, luckily not as bad. I'd want to shoot myself right about now if I were in his place. All started with his decision to keep Figo on the field. I assume Figo got yellow card for UB (Unsportsman behavior), but how in the world do you get an UB call at a dead ball situation?? It clearly states that an UB foul at a dead ball turns into a VC (violent conduct) call which is one of seven mandatory ejection offences. I feel all hell broke lose after that and the players could sence the referee had no guts. In games like these if you are the referee you have to treat the players like dogs. You know, never ever show a dog that you are scared - you will make it worse. You have to be proactive. I think had he shown a couple of straight reds, he would have saved himself a lot of trouble. But that's just my 2 cents.
P.S. Bring on the Uruguan gentleman - there is your brave referee!
