Egypt File Official Complaint to FIFA Over Controversial Refereeing in Argentina Defeat

Egypt's football federation has lodged a formal protest with FIFA, citing what they deem as biased officiating in their heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Argentina in the World Cup round of 16. Coach Hossam Hassan led the charge, accusing referee Francois Letexier of tilting the match in favor of the defending champions.

The controversy erupted after two penalty appeals were waved away, including a tackle on Mohamed Salah by Julian Alvarez, and a shirt pull on Hamdi Fathy by Alexis Mac Allister. VAR did not intervene, and moments later Argentina scored the winning goal through Enzo Fernandez in the 92nd minute.

Hassan, visibly frustrated, claimed the World Cup was 'directed towards Argentina' and criticized the lack of fairness. He was booked after crossing his arms in a gesture used to signal racist abuse, though he did not reference that during his post-match remarks.

The Egyptian FA is also demanding that Letexier be removed from the tournament. FIFA has yet to comment, but the complaint adds fuel to ongoing debates about VAR consistency and referee accountability at the highest level of the sport.