Egypt Files FIFA Complaint After Controversial World Cup Exit to Argentina

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has lodged an official complaint with FIFA, demanding an investigation into the refereeing team that officiated Egypt's controversial 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the EFA said its president, Hany Aburida, had called for French referee François Letexier and the entire officiating team, including the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officials, to be investigated and removed from the tournament over what it described as "serious refereeing mistakes" and "double standards" that led to Egypt's elimination.

The controversy began when a goal by Mostafa Ziko was ruled out after VAR intervened to identify a foul on Lisandro Martínez earlier in the build-up. Despite the setback, Ziko later scored to give Egypt a 2-0 lead and put the Pharaohs on the verge of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time.

However, Argentina fought back through goals from Cristian Romero and Lionel Messi before Enzo Fernández netted the winner. Egypt argued that play should have been stopped before the decisive goal, claiming Alexis Mac Allister had fouled Hamdy Fathy inside the penalty area.

The federation said it believes the match officials failed to review key incidents that could have resulted in a legitimate Egyptian goal and a penalty. The complaint also called for disciplinary action against the refereeing team if the investigation confirms the alleged errors.

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan strongly criticized the officiating after the match, saying his team had been "cheated unfairly" and accusing officials of failing to show fairness or respect.

Speaking to reporters, Hassan suggested that external factors may have influenced the outcome, claiming the reigning world champions received support throughout the tournament. He also questioned whether there was a desire to keep Argentina and captain Lionel Messi in the competition.

FIFA has not yet responded publicly to Egypt's complaint.