The second leg of the Champions League quarterfinal between Borussia Dortmund and FC Barcelona is set to take place on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Signal Iduna Park. While all eyes will be on whether Dortmund can produce a miracle comeback after a heavy defeat in the first leg, UEFA has confirmed the match officials tasked with overseeing this high-stakes encounter.
Leading the officiating team will be one of Serie A’s most experienced referees, with a full Italian crew appointed to manage the match.
Maurizio Mariani has been entrusted with the responsibility of officiating what could be one of the most intense second-leg battles of this year’s quarterfinals. While he has previously taken charge of Borussia Dortmund during a group stage match in the 2022–23 season, this marks his first time officiating a Champions League match involving FC Barcelona.
Mariani has developed a reputation for calm control and consistent decision-making in high-pressure fixtures, including previous assignments in Serie A and UEFA competitions.
Both long-time collaborators with Mariani, Bindoni and Tegoni bring a high level of familiarity and precision to the officiating team. Their presence ensures a tightly coordinated sideline operation, especially important in a tie that could shift rapidly in momentum.
Sozza, also representing Italy, will be in charge of technical area supervision, managing substitutions, and assisting with disciplinary matters off the pitch.
Di Bello brings extensive European VAR experience to the match, with oversight on all video-reviewed decisions including goals, penalties, and potential red cards.
Supporting Di Bello in the VAR booth will be fellow Italian Daniele Doveri, helping ensure rapid and accurate video decision-making.
Barcelona dominated the opening leg at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, cruising to a 4–0 win. Goals from Robert Lewandowski (2), Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal put the Spanish giants in a commanding position heading into the return fixture.
For Dortmund, the challenge is enormous — but not entirely impossible. A fast start at home could change the dynamic quickly, especially if the crowd plays its part.
The winner of this tie will advance to the Champions League semifinals to face either Bayern Munich or Inter Milan. With so much on the line, UEFA’s decision to appoint a composed and experienced refereeing crew underlines the importance of maintaining control and fairness throughout.
