Argentina pulled off a stunning 3-2 comeback against Egypt in the World Cup, with refereeing decisions sparking fierce controversy. Egypt's Mostafa Ziko claimed the match was 'rigged,' while manager Hossam Hassan accused officials of bias. Argentina will now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals, setting up a potential semi-final against England if Thomas Tuchel's side defeat Norway.
Egypt's Fury Over Officiating
Egypt led 2-0 after goals from Mostafa Shobeir and Ziko, but Argentina fought back through Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi, and Enzo Fernandez. Egypt had a goal disallowed by VAR for an earlier infringement, and were denied a penalty for fouls on Mohamed Salah and Hamdi Fathi. Ziko said: 'The referee wasn't good, he was unfair. It was a rigged game. It seems like this match was rigged.'
Manager Hossam Hassan added: 'We haven't seen respect or fair play. A penalty was ruled out and a second incident was not checked by VAR. Life is unfair. The cup is directed towards Argentina.'
Jordan Henderson's World Cup Over
England midfielder Jordan Henderson suffered a severely fractured wrist after a bizarre fall while celebrating England's 3-2 win over Mexico. The 36-year-old required oxygen and was stretchered from the stadium. He will undergo surgery and may not play for England again. Henderson posted on Instagram: 'A night to remember... So proud to be a part of this special team.'
Switzerland Advance on Penalties
Switzerland defeated Colombia 4-3 on penalties in Vancouver to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1954. Davinson Sanchez hit the bar and Cucho Hernandez had his effort saved, before Ruben Vargas scored the winner. Colombia missed out on a repeat of their 2018 penalty shootout defeat to England.
ITV Pundits Criticise VAR
Ian Wright argued Argentina's winning goal should have been disallowed for a foul on Salah. Gary Neville said it was 'unlikely' an Argentina goal would be dismissed under similar circumstances. Wright added: 'If you're going to pull it back for Argentina on the edge of the box, you have to pull it back for this one with Mo Salah.'
