Turkish referee withdraws at halftime due to injury in UEFA play-off match

Turkish referee Halil Umut Meler was forced to withdraw at halftime because of an injury while officiating the UEFA Nations League B play-off second-leg match between Ireland and Bulgaria.

The match, played in Dublin, saw Ireland claim a 2-1 victory, securing promotion to a higher division.

However, Meler’s evening took an unfortunate turn in the 37th minute when he sustained an injury.

After briefly consulting medical staff on the sidelines, he resumed officiating and completed the first half.

When play resumed for the second half, Meler did not return to the pitch, raising initial concerns. It was later confirmed that his earlier injury had prevented him from continuing.

As a result, fourth official Mehmet Turkmen stepped in to take charge for the remainder of the match.