CAIRO: Egypt’s Football Association has lodged an official complaint with FIFA, calling for an investigation into the refereeing team that officiated its controversial 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
The Egyptian federation said its president, Hany Aburida, submitted the complaint after what it described as serious refereeing errors and inconsistent decision-making that influenced the outcome of the match.
Egypt took an early lead, but a goal by Mostafa Ziko was ruled out following a VAR review for a foul in the build-up. Ziko later scored again to put Egypt 2-0 ahead before Argentina mounted a dramatic comeback.
The federation also argued that Egypt should have been awarded a penalty shortly before Enzo Fernandez scored Argentina’s late winner, claiming Alexis Mac Allister fouled Hamdy Fathy inside the penalty area.
In its complaint, Egypt requested FIFA investigate the referee, French official Francois Letexier, along with the entire VAR team, alleged key incidents were either wrongly judged or not reviewed despite available video evidence.
The federation also urged FIFA to remove the entire officiating crew from the remainder of the tournament if the investigation confirms the alleged errors.
Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan strongly criticised the officiating after the match, saying his team had been treated unfairly and insisting several decisive moments went against the Pharaohs.
FIFA has not publicly responded to the complaint at the time of filing. Argentina’s victory secured its place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
