Summary Referee awarded Brazil a goal after first whistling for a penalty against Italy.
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) - FIFA says the referee who awarded Brazil a goal after first whistling for a penalty in Saturday s match against Italy has admitted he made a mistake.
Referee Ravshan Irmatov blew his whistle to award Brazil a penalty when the score was 2-1 to Brazil in the second half. Moments later, as play continued, striker Fred scored to make the score 3-1.
Irmatov was seen pointing at the penalty spot and then giving a goal. "He has admitted he made a mistake," said FIFA spokesman Pekka Odriozola.
Irmatov, a widely respected referee, had been expected to have a chance to referee the Confederations Cup final but is now expected to be sent home along with his assistants, who also made two key errors in Saturday s game.
