Published: 12:26 AM, 09 July 2026
Egypt accuses referee of Argentina bias
French referee Francois Letexier speaks to Egypt's Mohamed Salah during the match. -AFP
Egypt have been left furious after letting a two-goal lead slip in a dramatic defeat to Argentina, with coach Hossam Hassan accusing officials of treating his side "unfairly" and questioning the credibility of key refereeing decisions.
With just 12 minutes of normal time remaining, Egypt were leading the reigning world champions 2-0 and appeared on course for a first-ever World Cup quarter-final.
But Cristian Romero pulled one back in the 79th minute before captain Lionel Messi levelled four minutes later.
Enzo Fernandez then headed home in the second minute of stoppage time to complete a remarkable comeback and send Argentina into the last eight.
Egypt's fury centered on two decisions, the British broadcaster said.
A second Egyptian goal, scored by Mostafa Zico, was ruled out by the video assistant referee (VAR) after midfielder Marwan Attia was penalised for a foul on Lisandro Martinez earlier in the move.
Egypt also believe Mohamed Salah was fouled in Argentina's box moments before Fernandez's winner.
Egypt coach Hassan did not hold back afterwards, telling reporters his side had been "treated unfairly" and "suffered injustice".
He questioned the credibility of the officiating and suggested FIFA and Argentina had an interest in keeping Messi in the tournament.
"Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champion in the competition. Perhaps they wanted Messi to stay in the running," Hassan said, as quoted by the broadcaster.
>>Bernard Priyam, AA
