Anderson Daronco to referee Ceará vs Santos at Castelão — this is one of the key updates ahead of the 27th round of the Brazilian Championship. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has officially appointed the experienced FIFA referee from Rio Grande do Sul to take charge of the match, scheduled for October 5 at 8:30 PM.
Anderson Daronco to referee Ceará vs Santos at Castelão – Why this appointment matters
When we say “Anderson Daronco to referee Ceará vs Santos at Castelão,” it’s not just a match announcement — it’s a statement about fairness, experience, and trust in officiating. The CBF’s decision reflects the need for balance in a crucial fixture where both teams are fighting for points.
Daronco, a FIFA-listed referee since 2015, is known for his strong personality and physical presence on the field. As of 2025, this match marks his 41st appearance in official competitions across Brazil, including Serie A, Serie B, Copa do Brasil, and even international tournaments. His experience is exactly why the CBF relies on him for high-stakes games.
Having a referee like Daronco means the match is expected to be handled with authority and minimal controversy. His track record shows a strict approach to discipline, which can prevent heated arguments or unsportsmanlike conduct — essential for a fair and exciting football experience.
Who is Anderson Daronco?
Anderson Daronco, born in Rio Grande do Sul, is one of Brazil’s most recognized referees. Known for his muscular build and no-nonsense attitude, Daronco has built a reputation for commanding respect on the field. Being part of the FIFA referee list since 2015 allows him to officiate international games — a privilege that requires technical precision and mental strength.
In the current Brazilian season, Daronco has officiated 16 Serie A matches. His statistics reveal a disciplined pattern: an average of 4.1 yellow cards per game and five red cards so far this year. These numbers show he doesn’t shy away from enforcing the rules when players cross the line.
For example, in a previous Serie A match between Palmeiras and Fluminense, his firm decision-making helped keep the game under control despite growing tension between players. That’s the kind of composure CBF expects from a referee in a match like Ceará vs Santos.
The Referee Team for Ceará vs Santos
Daronco won’t be alone on the field. A complete team of officials will support him to ensure accuracy and fairness in every decision.
-
Main Referee: Anderson Daronco (FIFA-RS)
-
Assistant Referees: Maira Mastella Moreira (FIFA-RS) and Thiago Henrique Neto Correa Farinha (RJ)
-
Fourth Official: Bruno Mota Correia (RJ)
-
VAR (Video Assistant Referee): Rafael Traci (SC)
-
AVARs (Assistant VARs): Daniel do Espírito Santo Parro (RJ) and Dewson Fernando Freitas da Silva (PA)
This structure ensures that key decisions like goals, penalties, or red cards are reviewed from multiple angles before confirmation. The presence of an experienced VAR team reduces the chances of major officiating errors, especially in high-pressure matches.
Why the Referee Appointment is Crucial
Imagine a tense football match where both teams are equally strong. If the referee lacks confidence or authority, small fouls can escalate into chaos. But when someone like Daronco is in charge, players are more likely to respect the rules and avoid unnecessary confrontations.
In a fixture like Ceará vs Santos, where emotions run high, the referee’s control is essential. Daronco’s leadership style keeps the game focused on skill rather than conflict. This doesn’t just benefit the teams — it also enhances the experience for fans, who want to see fair play rather than endless disputes.
Moreover, appointing a referee with Daronco’s reputation helps maintain the league’s credibility. The CBF knows that controversial refereeing can overshadow the sport, so assigning an official known for consistency helps preserve the tournament’s integrity.
What to Expect from Ceará vs Santos
With Daronco leading the game, fans can expect a disciplined, fast-paced, and fair match. His familiarity with Ceará — having refereed some of their past fixtures, like their 1–1 draw against São Paulo earlier this season — means he understands their playing style and can manage on-field situations effectively.
For Santos, who has struggled with consistency this season, having a fair and experienced referee can make all the difference. The VAR support will also minimize any chances of unfair calls that could impact the final score.
Overall, this matchup promises to be a balanced and exciting one. With Daronco in charge, both teams can focus on playing their best football, while fans can enjoy a clean and well-managed game at the iconic Castelão stadium.
