AFCON 2025
Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has launched a scathing attack on the officiating following his side’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, going as far as claiming the match was “rigged.”
The Pharaohs looked on course for one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history after establishing a 2-0 lead over the defending champions. However, Argentina staged a remarkable late comeback, scoring three goals in the final 23 minutes, with Enzo Fernández netting the winner deep into stoppage time.
The contest was overshadowed by a controversial VAR decision in the 58th minute when Mostafa Zico’s goal, which would have given Egypt a commanding advantage, was ruled out after referee François Letexier judged that Marawan Attia had fouled Lisandro Martínez in the build-up.
Speaking after the match, an emotional Hassan accused the officials of denying Egypt a deserved victory.
“I think the effect of this outcome goes beyond the defeated side. We haven’t seen respect nor fair play,” Hassan said.
“I’m not convinced with this outcome, with the way things unfolded in this match. We’ve been treated unfairly today. We’ve suffered injustice.”
The Egypt boss then escalated his criticism, alleging that the match had been manipulated.
“I will say what’s on my mind regardless of the consequence. This was clearly a rigged match and the whole world saw it,” Hassan declared.
He also questioned FIFA’s integrity, suggesting the tournament had been unfairly tilted in Argentina’s favour.
“And I want to say one more thing, if they want them [Argentina] to win so bad, why call everyone to come and participate?”
Hassan’s explosive comments are likely to draw significant attention and could prompt disciplinary action if deemed to breach FIFA’s code of conduct. Meanwhile, Argentina advance to the World Cup quarter-finals after completing one of the tournament’s most dramatic comebacks, while Egypt bow out amid lingering controversy over the officiating.
