Referee Alireza Faghani was at the center of a storm during England's 3-2 victory over Mexico in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Australian-Iranian official made several controversial decisions involving VAR, drawing harsh criticism from England manager Thomas Tuchel and former striker Alan Shearer.
Key Decisions Spark Debate
Faghani awarded two penalties and sent off England defender Jarrell Quansah in a pulsating match. Quansah initially escaped punishment for a high challenge early in the second half, but VAR intervened, and after reviewing the monitor, Faghani showed a red card. Alan Shearer, commentating for the BBC, supported the decision, calling the replay 'horrible'.
Minutes later, Faghani awarded England a penalty when Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel fouled Anthony Gordon. However, the most contentious decision came when he awarded Mexico a penalty after Harry Kane was judged to have fouled an opponent, following another VAR review. Shearer disagreed, saying: "Kane does clip the player's foot in there but that is not enough to give a penalty for me. That's a kick of the foot, that's not a penalty for me."
Tuchel's Fury
Thomas Tuchel was incensed by both VAR interventions. "Just not good enough. The referees just aren't good enough, fourth officials just not good enough. It's the bottom line," he said. "Did I see that right? Three people on the VAR from South America, a match like this? I could be wrong... VAR overturns a clear and obvious mistake for the penalty, absolutely not."
Former Premier League official Darren Cann supported the penalty decision, highlighting the divide in opinion.
Fans Divided
Despite Tuchel's criticism, many World Cup supporters praised Faghani. One fan said: "Alireza Faghani is the most experienced referee at the 2026 FIFA World Cup; the only center referee in history to be appointed to four consecutive FIFA World Cups. Based on performance, he deserves to be the referee for the World Cup Final." Another added: "Alireza Faghani should be the referee for the final. He has been spotless and completely fair throughout this World Cup."
However, others condemned him. One fan bluntly said: "The worst refereeing so far in this World Cup... Alireza Faghani." Another added: "Alireza Faghani should never be given another game as high-profile as that one. Way too easily influenced by the crowd."
England Advance
Despite the controversy, goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane secured England's 3-2 victory. The Three Lions will face Norway in the quarter-finals on Saturday evening.
