Argentina are through to the World Cup final after a last-minute 2-1 win over England, but the result has sparked widespread conspiracy theories that the tournament has been rigged in their favour. Fans have pointed to a series of controversial moments, including Lionel Messi's apparent preferential treatment from referees and a disputed rugby-style tackle on Jude Bellingham.
Controversial Moments in Argentina's World Cup Journey
Argentina's first match against Algeria saw Messi escape a foul after raking his studs down Aissa Mandi's leg, with no booking given. They received zero yellow cards in that game despite 13 fouls, and none against Jordan either. In the round of 32, FIFA president Gianni Infantino was seen congratulating Argentina on television, though he later clarified he spoke as a neutral.
Against Egypt, a VAR review ruled out a legitimate Egyptian goal for a foul 100 yards away and 20 seconds earlier, while a penalty claim for Mohamed Salah was denied before Argentina's 93rd-minute winner. The Egyptian manager called the match "clearly rigged." In the quarter-final against Switzerland, a controversial VAR decision overturned a yellow card for Leandro Paredes, leading to a red card for Breel Embolo instead, forcing Switzerland to play with 10 men.
England vs Argentina: The Referee and Key Incidents
The semi-final was officiated by Ismail Elfath, described as Messi's 'favourite referee' after officiating four Inter Miami games featuring Messi, all of which Messi won. At half-time, Messi was seen approaching Elfath, prompting complaints from England fans. During the match, Messi appeared to put Bellingham in a headlock without punishment. Bellingham later downplayed it, saying they were discussing a foul.
Messi also appeared to stamp on Djed Spence in the build-up to Argentina's winning goal, but no foul was called. Enzo Fernandez, who scored the winner, avoided a yellow card for elbowing Elliot Anderson in the neck early in the match. The first half saw 19 fouls (12 from Argentina, 7 from England) but only two yellow cards. By full-time, the foul count reached 26, with four cards total (three for Argentina).
Political Controversy: Falklands Banner
After the match, Argentina players held a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" (The Falklands are Argentine), referencing the disputed territory. Argentina vice-president Victoria Villarruel had called England "invaders" before the match. The UK's Peter Kyle called the behaviour "entirely inappropriate" and said FIFA should investigate. FIFA prohibits political slogans and fined Argentina £20,000 for a similar banner in 2014.
