The World Cup 'rigged' for Argentina? Inside six moments that debunk FIFA bias narrative

The World Cup “rigged” for Argentina? headlines have focused on claims of FIFA bias, and the article counters them with six tournament moments and match data. It says Argentina entered the 2026 World Cup title run without leading in the 90th minute of any of their four knockout matches. The piece argues the key evidence is VAR-related: Argentina recorded 6.7 VAR overturns per 1,000 fouls, the highest in the competition, and it says they were not penalized by VAR at any point. It also highlights Lionel Messi’s opening-match “no-call” versus Algeria, where referee Szymon Marciniak showed no card and VAR did not intervene. The article further describes an “exceedingly soft” knockout path via their bracket draw and Algeria-to-semifinal opponent scenario.