Rafael Klein referees the first final between Corinthians and Vasco; see the scale

FIFA referee from Rio Grande do Sul orders first leg at Neo Química Arena; Daniel Nobre Bins will be responsible for VAR in the decision

December 15
2025
– 8:57 p.m.

(updated at 8:57 p.m.)

Klein during Palmeiras x Vasco in round 26 of the Brasileirão –

Photo: César Greco / Palmeiras / Jogada10

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) defined, in the afternoon of this Monday (15), the refereeing team responsible for directing the first 90 minutes of the big decision of the Copa do Brasil 2025. Rafael Rodrigo Klein, from Rio Grande do Sul, was chosen to direct the duel between Corinthians and Vasco, scheduled for this Wednesday (17), at 9:30 p.m. (Brasilia time), at the Neo Química Arena. The clash pits two domestic giants in the hunt for one of the most coveted trophies on the calendar and demands a steady hand from the team at the whistle.

Rafael Klein has been a member of the FIFA staff since last year and has gained prestige within the refereeing committee thanks to his consistency in recent seasons. The judge played 22 matches in the last edition of the Brazilian Championship, which demonstrates the entity’s confidence in his work. For this Wednesday’s interstate classic, he will have the support of experienced flag assistants: Guilherme Dias Camilo, from Minas Gerais, and Rafael da Silva Alves, also from Rio Grande do Sul. Both also wear the FIFA shield.

The refereeing structure also includes Davi de Oliveira Lacerda, from Espírito Santo, as fourth referee. Lacerda typically acts as the lead judge in Series A and B matches, ensuring qualified on-court support to control the benches and assist with administrative decisions. The CBF sought to build an elite team to minimize controversies in a match of such magnitude.

Rafael Klein will be joined by Daniel Nobre Bins at VAR

In charge of technology, responsibility falls to Daniel Nobre Bins. The gaucho will operate VAR in the cabin, bringing with him the experience of having worked in 26 Serie A matches in this role. The role of the video referee will be crucial, given that the Brazilian Cup finals are historically characterized by tight, high-tension games.

Corinthians and Vasco reach the final after beating Cruzeiro and Fluminense respectively in thrilling semi-finals. The return match, which will define the grand champion, will take place next Sunday. The CBF will also announce the refereeing schedule for the decisive clash in Rio de Janeiro.