Soccer: NZ linesman get nod for Cup match

Auckland linesman Paul Smith will have his first World Cup outing next Wednesday when he runs the line for the game between Russia and Tunisia in Kobe, Japan.

In his second, and so far only other confirmed appointment, Smith will be on the line for Australian referee Mark Shields for the game between Tunisia and Belgium in Oita on June 10.

Ali Mohamed Bujsaim, an immigration officer from the United Arab Emirates, the only referee at the World Cup officiating at his third consecutive tournament, will control Friday's opening game between France and Senegal.

nzherald.co.nz/fifaworldcup

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