Bosnia and Herzegovina and Qatar are preparing for a crucial fixture that will determine which side progresses to the knockout stage of the World Cup.

A victory for either team would take them to four points, likely securing qualification as one of the top eight third-placed teams. However, a draw or defeat would mean elimination from the tournament.

The encounter is set to take place in Seattle, with at least one of the teams expected to exit the competition after this game.

The match will be officiated by Venezuelan referee Jesus Valenzuela, who will be handling his second assignment of the tournament.

Valenzuela previously oversaw Australia’s surprising win over Turkey in the opening round of fixtures. The Venezuelan official is highly regarded for his extensive international experience, having participated in three Copa America tournaments.

Since making his professional debut in 2013, Valenzuela has officiated nearly 400 matches, beginning his career in Venezuela’s Primeira Division.

In recognition of his exceptional performances, he was honoured as CONMEBOL’s Best Referee in 2021 by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS).

Qatar will face this match without two of their starting players, both of whom received red cards in their previous game against Canada.

Valenzuela will be supported by his compatriots Jorge Urrego and Tulio Moreno, who will serve as assistant referees along the touchlines.

The fourth official for the match will be Tomosuke Araki, while Jun Mihara will act as the reserve assistant referee. Both officials hail from Japan.

The Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar match is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 PM UK time on Wednesday evening.