FIFA has appointed an all-Argentinian officiating team for France's World Cup quarter-final against Morocco, prompting accusations of rigging from football supporters. The announcement comes after Argentina's controversial 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt, which Egypt's Mostafa Ziko described as "rigged."
All-Argentinian Officiating Team Announced
Facundo Tello will referee the match, with Juan Pablo Belatti and Gabriel Chade as assistant referees. Dario Herrera serves as fourth official, and Cristian Navarro as reserve assistant referee. The decision has drawn criticism on social media, with one X user posting: "All Argentina referees for a France match, FIFA trying everything to rig the World Cup for Argentina once again." Another commented: "It already looks rigged."
Egypt's Controversial Exit
Egypt led 2-0 before Argentina mounted a stunning comeback to win 3-2. Mostafa Ziko, who scored Egypt's second goal, was incensed by referee Francois Letexier's performance. "It was a rigged game," Ziko said. "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." Ziko's opening goal was disallowed after a VAR review for a foul in the buildup, while Argentina's winning goal by Enzo Fernandez stood despite a challenge on an Egypt player that officials deemed legal. Egypt also felt they should have been awarded a penalty when Mohamed Salah was brought down by Julian Alvarez.
Egypt Coach Alleges Injustice
Egypt manager Hossam Hassan accused football authorities of bias, saying: "Why isn't there any fairness in sport? In football? We have been treated unfairly today. We have suffered injustice. It could be a matter of marketing; they could want to make a World Cup with the champion of the last World Cup, they want Messi to exist (in the tournament)."
Argentina's Path Forward
Argentina, the reigning world champions, will face Switzerland in their quarter-final. If they advance, they will meet the winner of England versus Norway in the semi-finals. The controversy surrounding their victory over Egypt and the officiating for France vs. Morocco has fueled accusations of FIFA favoritism toward Argentina and Lionel Messi.
