The Egyptian Football Association has formally asked FIFA to remove the match officials who handled Egypt’s controversial 2026 World Cup last-16 defeat to Argentina national football team.
Egypt submitted an official complaint following Tuesday’s dramatic 3-2 loss in Atlanta, claiming several refereeing decisions unfairly influenced the outcome and ultimately led to their elimination from the tournament.
Egypt questions key refereeing decisions
The EFA’s complaint focuses on French referee Francois Letexier and the video assistant referee (VAR) team.
With Egypt leading during the second half, Mostafa Zico had a goal ruled out after VAR determined that midfielder Marwan Attia had fouled Argentina defender Lisandro Martinez in the build-up by stepping on his foot.
Egypt also argued they should have been awarded a penalty after captain Mohamed Salah was challenged inside the penalty area moments before Argentina launched the attack that produced Enzo Fernandez’s injury-time winner.
In a statement, the federation said: “Hany Abou Rida, president of the Egyptian Football Association, filed a complaint with FIFA, demanding an investigation into the French referee Francois Letexier after the serious refereeing mistakes committed by the team of referees and double standards, which caused the Egypt team to lose the match and leave the World Cup.”
Federation seeks investigation
The EFA also called for an investigation into the entire officiating team, including the VAR officials, alleging “blatant errors” and accusing them of failing to review key incidents during the match.
The federation further requested “the exclusion of the referee and the entire crew from the World Cup after investigating these mistakes”, while also alleging discrimination against the Egyptian national team.
Egypt, who have never reached the World Cup quarter-finals, surrendered a two-goal advantage as Argentina mounted a late comeback.
Captain Lionel Messi inspired the turnaround by creating one goal before scoring the equaliser, with Enzo Fernandez netting the decisive winner in stoppage time.
Following the match, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan claimed his team had been treated unfairly, while goalscorer Mostafa Zico alleged the officiating throughout the contest was unjust.
Argentina will face Switzerland national football team in the World Cup quarter-finals.