Alan Shearer has expressed concerns about the officiating in England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina, warning that referee Ismail Elfath and VAR could cost the Three Lions a place in the final. Thomas Tuchel's side aim to become only the second England team to reach the World Cup showpiece, which will be held in New York on July 19.
Shearer's Concerns Over Referee and VAR
Moroccan-born American official Ismail Elfath has been appointed to oversee the semi-final in Atlanta. Shearer, speaking to Betfair, highlighted a shift in VAR usage during the tournament. "I'm slightly concerned that a refereeing decision or VAR could cost us against Argentina because I think the narrative from the referees and the VAR from the start of the tournament to now has changed massively," he said.
Shearer cited a France match where a clear penalty was not given despite the referee being sent to the monitor. He also criticized a decision in Argentina's favor against Egypt, where an Egyptian goal was ruled out. "I have been amazed at some of the decisions that Argentina have had, particularly that one against Egypt where their Egyptian goal was pulled back and cancelled out. I thought that was nonsense. It is a bit of a concern when playing them," he added.
Elfath's Tournament Record
Elfath has officiated three matches at this World Cup: Holland vs Japan, Spain's narrow win over Uruguay, and Brazil's exit against Norway. He has issued seven yellow cards, one red card, and two penalties. Notably, Lionel Messi has won every game in which Elfath has been involved, including the 2022 World Cup final where Elfath served as fourth official.
Historical Context
England and Argentina have a storied rivalry, including Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" in 1986 and David Beckham's red card in 1998. This is their first meeting since England's 1-0 win in the 2002 World Cup. Due to political tensions stemming from the Falklands War, no English or Argentine referees are involved; instead, American officials with Italian assistants handle the match.
VAR played a key role in England's quarter-final against Norway, overturning a penalty claim by Djed Spence after French referee Clement Turpin ruled the Tottenham defender initiated contact. The semi-final winner will face France or Spain in the final on July 19.
