Egyptian Snack Brand Drops Lionel Messi Amid World Cup Controversy

Following Egypt's controversial elimination from the 2026 World Cup round of 16 by Argentina, a local Egyptian snack company announced it will stop featuring Lionel Messi's image on its products. The company, which produces chips under the international brand Lay's, cited frustration over what many Egyptians viewed as an unfair match outcome. The game ended 3-2 in favor of Argentina, allowing them to advance to the quarterfinals.

During the match, Egypt led 2-0 until the 80th minute, despite having a goal disallowed by VAR at the 58th minute. Argentina staged a dramatic comeback, scoring the winning goal in stoppage time. Egyptian players and fans accused referees of bias, with Egypt's coach confronting officials after the game. Egyptian player Mostafa Ziko expressed anger, claiming the referee's decisions were blatantly unfair and suggesting the tournament was predetermined for Argentina to win.

The Egyptian snack company had previously used Messi's image on its packaging throughout the World Cup but decided to cease this practice following the match. This consumer boycott reflects broader public disappointment and resentment toward Messi and the Argentine team in Egypt after the contentious defeat.