The fourth official at the game in Düsseldorf was a Ukrainian, Balakin.
On Sunday, the Bundesliga match between Fortuna Düsseldorf and Eintracht Frankfurt was officiated by a unique fourth official — Ukrainian referee Volodymyr Balakin. While the main focus was on the players and the outcome of the game, Balakin’s presence on the sidelines did not go unnoticed.
Balakin, who hails from the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, has been a referee for over 20 years and has been a part of the Ukrainian Football Association since 2000. He has officiated in numerous Ukrainian Premier League matches and has also been a part of international games, including the 2018 UEFA Europa League final between Marseille and Atlético Madrid.
His appointment as the fourth official for the Düsseldorf-Frankfurt game was a proud moment for Balakin and for Ukrainian football as a whole. It was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and expertise in the field of refereeing.
Balakin’s presence on the sidelines was not just a symbolic gesture, but it also had a significant impact on the game. As the fourth official, his role was to assist the referee and the assistant referees in making decisions, keeping track of substitutions, and ensuring that the game ran smoothly.
In addition to his duties as the fourth official, Balakin also had the responsibility of communicating with the coaches and players from both teams. He had to ensure that the game was played within the rules and regulations of the sport and that any disputes or concerns were addressed promptly and fairly.
For Balakin, this was not just another game. It was an opportunity to represent his country and showcase his skills on an international level. And he did not disappoint. Throughout the game, he remained calm, composed, and focused, earning the respect of both the players and the coaches.
His professionalism and expertise were evident in the way he handled the game, making accurate calls and keeping the game under control. His presence on the sidelines was a reassuring sight for both teams, knowing that the game was in capable hands.
But Balakin’s journey to becoming a respected referee was not an easy one. He faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but he never gave up on his dream. His passion for the sport and his determination to succeed kept him going, and today, he is one of the most renowned referees in Ukraine.
His appointment as the fourth official for the Düsseldorf-Frankfurt game was a recognition of his hard work and dedication. It was also a reflection of the growing presence of Ukrainian referees in top-level football.
In recent years, Ukrainian referees have made their mark on the international stage, with several of them officiating in major tournaments such as the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup. This is a testament to the high standard of refereeing in Ukraine and the continuous efforts of the Ukrainian Football Association to develop and promote talented referees like Balakin.
As the game in Düsseldorf came to an end, Balakin’s contribution to the match was acknowledged by both teams. The players and coaches from Fortuna Düsseldorf and Eintracht Frankfurt showed their appreciation for his professionalism and expertise, and he received a round of applause from the crowd.
For Balakin, it was a proud moment to represent his country and be a part of such an important game. His presence as the fourth official was not just a mere formality, but it was a recognition of his skills and his contribution to the sport of football.
In conclusion, the fourth official at the game in Düsseldorf was not just a Ukrainian, but a highly skilled and respected referee, Volodymyr Balakin. His presence on the sidelines was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and expertise, and it was a proud moment for Ukrainian football. Balakin’s journey is an inspiration to all aspiring referees, and his contribution to the game will be remembered for years to come.
