Egyptian Conspiracy Theory Claims Yair Netanyahu and Messi Colluded to Eliminate Egypt from World Cup

Following Egypt's dramatic 3-2 loss to Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a conspiracy theory has emerged in Cairo accusing Israel and FIFA of orchestrating Egypt's elimination. Egyptian political analyst Mohammad Nour alleged that Yair Netanyahu, son of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is closely connected to Lionel Messi and facilitated Messi's high-profile transfer to Inter Miami. Nour claimed this relationship turned Argentina's national team into an "Israeli team par excellence," suggesting the match outcome was manipulated to serve political interests.

The theory further asserts that FIFA and Israeli authorities conspired to prevent the Egyptian team from showing solidarity with Palestine on the global stage. Nour pointed to Messi's visits to the Western Wall, his wearing of a kippah, and the friendship between Argentina's President Javier Milei and Benjamin Netanyahu as "evidence" of this alliance. He also accused FIFA officials and referees of deliberately limiting Egypt's chances to stop coach Hossam Hassan from raising a Palestinian flag during the tournament, which would have occurred had Egypt advanced to the quarterfinals.

This narrative has gained traction on social media and sparked outrage in the Arab world, with critics attacking FIFA and Argentina for alleged political bias. The controversy highlights the intersection of sports and geopolitics amid the World Cup, overshadowing Egypt's on-field performance and tactical errors. The Egyptian team’s exit continues to fuel regional tensions and conspiracy discussions as the tournament progresses.