The UEFA Super Cup game between last season’s Champions League winners Liverpool and Europa League holders Chelsea was significant and historic. As teams walked out at the Vodafone Arena in Istanbul, they were led out by a female referee, Stephanie Frappart.
AFP
The occasion sent her straight into history, as she became the first female referee to officiate a major men’s European match. The game on the night had to match the historic occasion, and it didn’t disappoint.
Liverpool and Chelsea played an entertaining game with both sides locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes, taking the game into extra 30 minutes. After 120 minutes of grilling football, teams couldn’t be separated with scores level at 2-2. Liverpool won the game 5-4 on penalties, but it was Stephanie Frappart who stole the show.
AFP
The 35 year-old French referee was cool as ice, making key decisions including awarding a penalty to Chelsea which Jorginho converted to make it 2-2. The whole officiating team was all female with Manuela Nicolosi and Michelle O’Neill assisting Stephanie Frappart in the match.
The occasion couldn’t have been better.
AFP
The moment Stephanie Frappart stepped into that soccer stadium, she broke down all the barriers. We hope it opens up the opportunity for more female referees to make their mark in big games around the world.