Egypt file complaint with FIFA blaming referee for World Cup 2026 elimination - Report
Argentina came from behind to secure a 3-2 win over Egypt.
FIFA is under increasing scrutiny for officiating, disciplinary decisions, and appeals during the 2026 World Cup. The newest dispute arose from judgements made during Argentina’s Round of 16 victory over Egypt, causing the Egyptian Football Association to register an official appeal.
According to Diaro AS, Egyptian Football Association president Hany Abo Rida filed a legal complaint against French referee François Letexier and his refereeing staff following Egypt’s 3-2 loss to Argentina.
In addition to seeking an explanation, the lawsuit requests a probe into what Egypt claim are questionable choices that harmed the Pharaohs.
Pharaohs FA files legal complaint against referee
The organisation has also demanded that the French officiating crew be withdrawn from the rest of the competition due to what it considers critical mistakes. The Pharaohs believe Letexier and his staff had a critical influence on Argentina’s triumph.
The situation follows numerous previous concerns over officiating during the World Cup. In recent days, both national federations, like Belgium’s, and confederations, such as UEFA, have expressed reservations over referee rulings. An increasing number of critics say that the tournament’s overall officiating level is a reason for worry.
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan described the refereeing as “unfair” — and on Argentina’s side — after his team fell 3-2 in devastating circumstances in the World Cup Round of 16.
Pharaohs’ head coach blasts referee for wrong decision vs Argentina
Despite Egypt’s 2-0 lead in the 67th minute, a controversially disallowed goal and then a contentious score by Argentina sent the South American squad to the semifinals.
“We haven’t seen respect or fair play,” Hassan told reporters after the match. “A penalty was ruled out, and a second [incident] that should have been checked for a penalty for us was not even checked by the VAR. A second goal was remarkably, for whatever reason, disallowed.”
“I want to put it in beautiful words and say, ‘Hard luck,’ but we have been treated unfairly, and it has been an injustice,” he added.
Why are Egypt filing a complaint against the referee?
They feel the decision against them was unfair.
Who won the game?
Argentina won the game 3-2.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.