Egypt sharply criticizes World Cup referee after loss to Argentina

Egypt sharply criticizes World Cup referee after loss to Argentina details criticism from the Egyptian Football Association following its Round of 16 defeat to Argentina. In a statement Wednesday, the federation said it was concerned about unfairness and filed a complaint against French referee François Letexier, who officiated the match in Atlanta on Tuesday. The article notes multiple controversial sequences in the closing minutes, including an Egyptian goal disallowed for a foul in the 58th minute, before Argentina—trailing by two goals with 79 minutes—completed a rally to reach the quarterfinals. It also cites the federation’s claims that VAR was not appropriately used, including a missed foul on Mohammed Salah in the 16th minute and a free-kick “gift” given to Argentina in the 45th. Egypt’s manager Hossam Hassan said the team was treated unfairly and referenced outside influence. FIFA offered no comment.