The Egyptian Football Association has formally lodged a complaint with FIFA, demanding an investigation into the officiating during their heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Argentina in the World Cup round of 16. Sky Sports News understands that Egypt have called for referee Francois Letexier to be removed from the tournament after a series of disputed decisions that left coach Hossam Hassan fuming.
Controversial calls tilt the match
An astonishing late comeback by the reigning champions saw three goals in 13 minutes overturn Egypt's lead, but the drama was marred by multiple flashpoints. With the score at 2-2 in stoppage time, Egypt appealed for a penalty when Julian Alvarez caught Mohamed Salah on the foot inside the area before winning the ball. No spot-kick was given, and moments later Argentina swept forward for Enzo Fernandez to head the winner.
Earlier, Alexis Mac Allister appeared to haul down Hamdi Fathy by the shirt, again ignored by Letexier and the Video Assistant Referee. To compound Egyptian frustration, a first-half strike by Zico was chalked off after a VAR check judged that Lisandro Martinez had been fouled in the build-up.
Egypt cry foul: 'The cup is directed towards Argentina'
Speaking in a fiery post-match press conference, Hassan pulled no punches.
"Life is unfair. The world is unfair. But why isn't there any fairness in sports? The referee is unfair. He's wasting the effort of an entire nation. The cup is directed towards Argentina,"he said. The coach also highlighted the lack of a VAR check on the Salah incident and accused the officials of succumbing to pressure from the Argentine camp.
The Egyptian FA on Wednesday released a statement insisting it "cannot remain silent regarding the refereeing decisions as well as the failure to make appropriate use of VAR." It demanded "the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and transparency" and called for consequences against Letexier, while noting that "controversial and influential refereeing incidents" had been highlighted by experts worldwide.
Argentina march on amid penalty debate
The dramatic victory sets up a quarter-final against Switzerland, but the fallout has intensified scrutiny of Argentina's relationship with match officials. Transfermarkt report that no nation has been awarded more penalties across the last two World Cups than the South Americans, a statistic that will fuel accusations of favouritism. Egyptian fans, meanwhile, have been left with a bitter taste after what many viewed as an opportunity to topple the holders.
Key Takeaways
- Egypt have officially complained to FIFA over the refereeing decisions in their 3-2 round of 16 loss to Argentina.
- Coach Hossam Hassan claimed the tournament is "directed towards Argentina" after two penalty appeals were ignored and a goal disallowed.
- The Egyptian FA has called for an investigation and for referee Francois Letexier to be stood down from the World Cup.
- Argentina scored three late goals to progress, but the controversy has reignited debate about officiating standards and VAR consistency.
Quick Facts
Match: Argentina 3-2 Egypt (round of 16, 2026 World Cup)
Referee: Francois Letexier (France)
Key disputed incidents: Tackle on Salah (no penalty), shirt pull on Fathy (no penalty), disallowed Zico goal after VAR review
Next for Argentina: Quarter-final vs Switzerland, Sunday, 2am UK/Ireland
