'Card Master': Chinese World Cup fans rally around referee Ma Ning’s first match between Curacao and Ecuador

China’s Ma Ning praised for his ‘masterful performance’ in first World Cup match

Ma Ning officiates his first World Cup match as the first Chinese referee in 24 years, accompanied by compatriots Zhou Fei and Fu Ming, in Curacao's 0-0 draw with Ecuador. China demonstrates reach into global governance institutions; goalkeeper Eloy Room's record 15 saves secured Curacao's historic first World Cup point.