Egypt Files Official Complaint Over Referee Bias in World Cup Loss to Argentina

Following Egypt's defeat to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup, the Egyptian Football Association has lodged an official complaint with FIFA against the match referee, François Letexier. The complaint accuses the referee and his team, including the VAR officials, of serious officiating errors and double standards that unfairly favored Argentina. Egyptian media and officials have expressed outrage, describing the match management as poor, biased, and tantamount to racism and a predetermined outcome.

The controversy centers on a disallowed Egyptian goal in the 58th minute due to a foul called early in the play, and a penalty claim for a foul on Mohamed Salah inside the box that was denied. This penalty decision is a key point of contention for Egypt, who argue it directly influenced Argentina's third goal and the match result. The Egyptian Football Association is demanding an investigation into the referee's conduct and calls for Letexier to be removed from officiating any further matches in the tournament.

While celebrations continue in Argentina and other parts of the world over one of the tournament's most dramatic comebacks, Egypt remains focused on what they describe as a major injustice and calls for FIFA to address the alleged refereeing misconduct. The incident has sparked widespread anger and accusations of a double standard in officiating at the World Cup.