Ziko's Explosive Allegations After Late Collapse
Egypt superstar Mostafa Ziko has sensationally questioned FIFA's integrity, suggesting the World Cup is being "rigged" in favour of Lionel Messi and Argentina after a devastating 3-2 defeat in the last 16. The Pharaohs were on the verge of a historic upset, leading 2-0 with just 12 minutes remaining, before three late goals from the reigning champions sparked fury and heartbreak.
In the aftermath, Ziko did not hold back, directly accusing world football's governing body of engineering a narrative for the Argentine captain. "It's clear what's going on. Everyone sees it. They want Messi to win another World Cup. The referees are under pressure. It's not fair," he told reporters in the mixed zone.
Egypt's Dream Turns Into Nightmare
At the Atlanta Stadium, Egypt had stunned the world with two first-half goals. But an extraordinary 13-minute blitz from Argentina, capped by an injury-time header from Enzo Fernandez, left the African side shattered. The comeback began with Cristian Romero's 79th-minute strike, followed by Messi's equaliser, before Fernandez completed the turnaround.
Egypt's fury centred on a controversial incident in the build-up to the winner. Julian Alvarez appeared to trip Mohamed Salah inside the box, but referee Szymon Marciniak waved play on, allowing Argentina to counter-attack. Egypt coach Hossam Hassan slammed the officiating as "unfair" and claimed the tournament is "directed towards Argentina."
"We were robbed. Everyone saw the penalty. The referee didn't want to give it because it was against Argentina. This is not football," Hassan fumed.
Mounting Tension and Wider Context
Ziko's comments add fuel to a growing firestorm around FIFA's handling of the tournament. Earlier, the USA's exit was marred by allegations of political interference after a red card suspension was controversially overturned. Now, with Argentina's latest escape, conspiracy theories are swelling, and Ziko's words will resonate with those who feel elite stars are protected.
While Messi's tears of relief told one story, Egypt and their fans saw a different script—one they believe was written in the boardrooms of Zurich. FIFA has yet to respond to the accusations, but the debate over fairness and favouritism is unlikely to subside as Argentina march on to face Colombia or Switzerland in the quarter-finals.
Key Takeaways
- Mostafa Ziko accused FIFA of rigging the World Cup to benefit Lionel Messi and Argentina after a dramatic 3-2 defeat.
- Egypt led 2-0 until the 79th minute, then conceded three late goals, including an injury-time winner.
- The controversy centres on a denied penalty for Mohamed Salah just before Argentina's decisive counter-attack.
- Coach Hossam Hassan also claimed the tournament is being directed towards the reigning champions.
- The incident follows wider concerns about FIFA's integrity, including the USA red-card scandal.
Quick Facts
Match: Argentina 3-2 Egypt (World Cup 2026, Round of 16)
Key moment: Enzo Fernandez 90+2' winner after controversial no-call
Allegations: Mostafa Ziko claims FIFA is rigging the tournament for Messi
Egypt coach: Hossam Hassan says officiating was "unfair"
Argentina's next match: Quarter-final vs Colombia or Switzerland