FIFA Breaks Silence on Argentina vs Egypt Controversy After ‘Rigged’ Match Claims
Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s Chief Refereeing Officer, has dismissed claims that Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 was “rigged.”
Egypt’s players and coaching staff were left incensed after several controversial decisions went against them during the match at Atlanta Stadium. The Pharaohs appeared to be cruising into the quarter-finals after Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko gave them a 2-0 lead by the 67th minute.
Argentina, however, mounted a stunning comeback. Cristian Romero reduced the deficit in the 79th minute before Lionel Messi levelled the score four minutes later. Enzo Fernández then struck a stoppage-time winner to send the reigning world champions into the last eight.
Collina rejects rigging claims
The defeat sparked anger in the Egyptian camp, with Ziko alleging the tournament had been “rigged” in Argentina’s favour. Head coach Hossam Hassan also suggested organisers wanted Messi and Argentina to remain in the competition for commercial and marketing reasons.
Collina categorically rejected the accusations and defended French referee François Letexier and FIFA’s officiating team.
Speaking to FIFA’s official website, the former World Cup final referee noted that the expanded 2026 tournament featured 50 per cent more matches than the 2022 edition. Despite acknowledging that errors can occur in such a demanding environment, he said FIFA remained satisfied with the overall standard of officiating.
Collina stressed that debate over refereeing decisions is a natural part of football but warned that unfounded allegations questioning officials’ integrity were unacceptable. He added that such claims could expose referees and their families to abuse and threats.
The Italian also dismissed suggestions that FIFA refereeing decisions could be influenced by external figures, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino. He insisted that match officials operate independently, make decisions honestly, and are committed to performing at the highest possible standard.
