Europe's referees relish World Cup opportunity

"For me it is the greatest honour to have made it to the World Cup," said Germany's Felix Brych as he prepares to head to Brazil for this summer's finals as part of Europe's contingent of officials. "After working hard for your entire career, this is a great confirmation of your work and a great source of joy," added the 38-year-old Munich native.

Like the players, the referees will be tested by South American conditions, but will be in peak physical condition, as confirmed by Portugal's Pedro Proença: "Preparation will be done with all due care, with technicians, specialists, people who will support us so that we will perform well."

Key to a successful tournament, Europe's referee's are only focused on helping facilitate an outstanding spectacle. "If we come off and people are speaking about the great game, the great players, the great goals, we're all satisfied by that," said English official Howard Webb. "Hopefully the people will be speaking about a wonderful tournament, a wonderful festival of high-level football and referees will, as a team, have contributed positively."