Egypt’s World Cup exit has been followed by intense controversy after Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 comeback.
Egypt manager Hossam Hassan has furiously accused FIFA of rigging the World Cup after his side were knocked out by Argentina yesterday
An Egypt coach was sent off after the bench reacted furiously to Enzo Fernandez’s winning goal for Argentina, clearly upset with the number of decisions that went against them
Egypt led 2-0 and looked destined for a famous victory before Argentina scored three late goals through Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez to reach the quarter-finals.
After the final whistle, Egypt’s coaching staff confronted referee Francois Letexier, with goalkeeping coach Saafan El‑Sagheer receiving a red card. Manager Hossam Hassan later criticised several refereeing and VAR decisions, including a penalty appeal involving Mohamed Salah shortly before Argentina’s winning goal.
Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to a dramatic late comeback as the World Cup holders won 3-2
Egypt’s star man Mohamed Salah cut a miserable figure as he arrived back at the team hotel
Hassan also alleged that commercial interests favoured keeping Lionel Messi in the tournament. These are allegations made by Hassan. No evidence has been presented to support claims of match manipulation or bias by FIFA.
Egypt also had a goal ruled out after a VAR review earlier in the match, adding to the frustration among players and supporters. Mostafa Zico described the officiating as unjust and apologised to Egyptian fans after the defeat.
FIFA boss Gianni Infantino lifted an Egyptian flag aloft in Vancouver shortly after the country’s elimination
Ziko, who netted Egypt’s second goal, congratulated Argentina on already winning the World Cup, claiming that the holders have been shown favouritism by ‘unjust’ referees
The result has sparked huge debate worldwide. While many supporters questioned key decisions, others pointed to Argentina’s remarkable resilience and late surge under pressure.
Argentina now continue their title defence after one of the greatest comebacks of the tournament, while Egypt are left reflecting on a heartbreaking elimination that will remain controversial for some time.
