Why UEFA Referee Daniele Orsato cried at Full Time

on Tuesday evening, Borussia Dortmund secured a spot in the final of the Champions League by defeating Paris Saint-Germain, prompting emotional scenes at full-time, including tears from referee Daniele Orsato.

The Bundesliga side’s unexpected victory came after winning the first leg of the semi-final 1-0 in Germany, but few anticipated them to replicate the feat in Paris, shutting out PSG’s star-studded attack to secure a 1-0 win once again.

As the final whistle blew, emotional scenes unfolded on both sides of the pitch. Dortmund’s players jubilantly celebrated with their traveling supporters, while PSG’s young stars, overwhelmed with disbelief, slumped to the turf.

However, unbeknownst to many fans, the moment held special significance for referee Daniele Orsato. The Italian official, a FIFA-listed referee since 2010, has presided over numerous high-profile matches, including the 2020 Champions League final in Lisbon and the opening match of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Orsato’s tearful reaction at full-time stemmed from the realization that he had just officiated his final Champions League match. The 48-year-old referee announced his retirement, effective this summer, after concluding his tenure at Euro 2024.

Despite the emotional circumstances, Orsato’s performance on the night earned widespread praise, particularly for his decision to award PSG a free-kick at the edge of the box, a call that drew commendation even as many believed a penalty would have been the correct decision.

It was the last Champions League game for Daniele Orsato. EURO 2024 will be the last tournament as FIFA referee. Thank you Daniele for everything! pic.twitter.com/ryJGqnS19Z

— Law 5 – The Ref (@Law5_TheRef) May 8, 2024