Aims to raise Indian officiating standards and champion growth on global stage
MARGAO
Jonathan de Souza, Vice President of the Goa Football Association (GFA) and Head of Operations at FC Goa, has been appointed as Goa’s first AFC (Asian Football Confederation) Match Commissioner, as confirmed by the Asian football governing body in their latest assignment list. The recognition comes after De Souza successfully passed the AFC exams, a significant milestone in his career.
Speaking to The Goan, an elated De Souza expressed his happiness at the achievement: “All FIFA referees aim for this. I’m extremely happy that my hard work and dedication have finally been recognized by the supreme body of Asia,” he said. "Indian referees have a lot of potential, and our Project Future India, which has been running since 2012, is producing some excellent referees. Our goal is to officiate at the FIFA World Cup, and I’m confident we’ll get there one day."
De Souza’s appointment as an AFC Match Commissioner is the result of his consistent performance in both the AIFF National Football Championship and age-group tournaments, where he demonstrated his skills and leadership. He acknowledges the faith shown in him and is determined to repay it through diligent service. “It’s my turn now to repay the faith shown in me. I must discharge my duties prudently and ensure the Indian flag flies high,” he added.
Anthony Pango, Senior Vice President of the Goa Football Association, congratulated De Souza on his achievement. He highlighted the critical role of a Match Commissioner: “Match Commissioners are the eyes and ears of a football match organization. The successful completion of a match depends not just on the organizers, but also on the Match Commissioner,” Pango said.
De Souza further elaborated on the importance of the role: “It’s like being part of the third team. A football match is not just a 90-minute affair; it extends beyond that, and it’s the Match Commissioner’s responsibility to ensure everything runs smoothly,” he explained.
As part of his duties, AFC Match Commissioners are responsible for conducting stadium inspections and overseeing matchday operations according to AFC standards. They submit reports based on their observations, helping to ensure that all matches are organized efficiently and safely.
De Souza took a moment to thank those who mentored him along his journey, including the late Anil Kamat, Assistant Secretary of the AIFF, Alberto Colaco, Dr. Caitano Fernandes, President of GFA, and Fenton, whose guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in his career progression.
