Argentina secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt to advance to the World Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Switzerland. The match, however, has been overshadowed by allegations of foul play and a FIFA investigation into racist abuse.
Quarter-Final Line-Up Complete
With Argentina's win, the quarter-final bracket is set. Argentina meets Switzerland, France plays Morocco, Spain faces Belgium, and England takes on Norway. Switzerland progressed after a penalty shootout win over Colombia.
Fans Cry 'Rigged' After Argentina Comeback
A number of supporters claimed the tournament has been 'rigged' in Lionel Messi's favour following Argentina's late comeback. Egypt's Mostafa Ziko had a goal disallowed for a questionable foul on Lisandro Martinez in the build-up, which some labelled a 'disgrace.' Ziko eventually scored Egypt's second in the 67th minute, but Argentina rallied to win.
Ziko: 'It Was a Rigged Game'
Egypt forward Mostafa Ziko criticised referee Francois Letexier after the match. He said: "It was a rigged game. It wasn't our fault. That referee...it seems like this match was rigged. We were winning 2-0, and he kept coming at us. Congratulations to Argentina on another World Cup, it seems."
Anti-Racism Gesture Amid Chaos
Several Egypt coaches were booked late in the match, with one sent off amid claims of fixing. Egypt coach Hossam Hassan made an 'X' with his arms in front of referee Letexier, a gesture used to report racist abuse. The reason for Hassan's gesture remains unclear.
FIFA Investigates Racist Abuse of IShowSpeed
FIFA has launched an investigation into alleged racist abuse directed at streamer IShowSpeed during Argentina's win over Cape Verde last week. The 21-year-old was involved in a verbal altercation with an Argentina fan after taunting Messi, followed by racist abuse in Spanish.
FIFA Hits Back at UEFA Over Balogun Ban
FIFA criticised UEFA's condemnation of Folarin Balogun's match ban suspension. UEFA claimed world football had crossed "a red line" by allowing the USA striker to play against Belgium. FIFA retorted that several UEFA-affiliated member associations have also had red cards overturned without dispute.
Jordan Henderson Ruled Out of World Cup
England midfielder Jordan Henderson will miss the rest of the World Cup after a freak accident following England's 3-2 win over Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. He shared an update on Instagram: "A night to remember that's for sure! What an incredible performance against all the different challenges. So proud to be a part of this special team. Thanks for all the support, another big one Saturday."
