Who is Netherlands vs. Argentina referee? Antonio Mateu Lahoz of Spain assigned to World Cup quarterfinal clash

Argentina's 2022 World Cup quarterfinal meeting with the Netherlands needs no build up as they prepare to do battle in Lusail on December 9.

A repeat of the 1978 final, and the 2014 semi-final, pits two powerhouses of South American and European football against each other for a place in the last four.

Lionel Messi and Cody Gakpo have been the standout names for their teams so far in Qatar, but there will be another focus in this clash, with FIFA confirming Spanish official Antonio Mateu Lahoz as the match referee.

Lahoz has over 14 years of experience to his name and the 45-year-old has developed a cult following in recent seasons.

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Who is Netherlands vs. Argentina referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz?

Lahoz is arguably the most well-known referee in Spanish football having led matches in La Liga since the start of the 2007/08 season.

He is also a key figure on UEFA and FIFA match lists, for club and international action, with his biggest stage so far coming in the 2021 Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea.

Qatar 2022 is his second World Cup, after being selected for two group stage games in Russia in 2018, before his profile grew again after the tournament.

Lahoz has come into wider focus during Champions League games in the last 12 months with fans from across Europe getting the chance to witness his unorthodox style.

He is willing to get involved with talking to captains, to calm tense situations, but he certainly enjoys the showman side of refereeing with theatrical calls and card brandishing.

Based on the volume of games across his long career, his red card count is relatively low, but he has already dismissed three players at club level in 2022/23, including Rangers defender James Sands in Champions League action.

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Everything to know about Antonio Mateu Lahoz

The 45-year-old is not short on self-confidence, a trait which has helped him manage high-pressure situations, but he does receive criticism for being a picky referee.

Lahoz is likely to feature again in the 2022 World Cup knockout stages, based on his level of experience, with the Valencia-born official in the running to take charge of the final on December 18.

FIFA will keep their pick for the final a closely guarded secret in the coming days, but Lahoz is expected to be on the shortlist, alongside Daniele Orsato, Clement Turpin and Danny Makkelie.