WORLD CUP SOCCER ’94 / THE FIRST ROUND : Spotlight : IS THE NFL LISTENING?

Although referees have been discussed almost as much as the heat during the first two weeks of the World Cup finals, none will be sent home early for poor performances, FIFA officials said Monday in Dallas.

David Will, chairman of FIFA’s refereeing committee, said during a news conference that soccer’s governing body was slightly disappointed with two performances in the first 26 games.

“More than two-thirds have received exceptionally high marks from the independent referees’ inspector,” said Will, who declined to name the two culprits.

Some referees are expected to be sent home only after the quarterfinals, when fewer officials will be needed.

Will also dismissed a botched call during Sunday’s Colombia-

Switzerland match in which Carlos Valderrama elbowed Ciriaco Sforza in the face, knocking him down. Colombia scored its first goal shortly after the incident.

Will said the use of television replay was not an option to correct such problems. Because FIFA officials are trying to speed up the game, Will said using the replay would be “wasting time.”

“Referees’ decisions, even controversial decisions, are part of the game, part of the excitement.” he said. “The referee can’t rely on anything but his linesman. He must call what he sees.”