World Cup 2026 qualifiers: Hossam Hassan protests refereeing after Egypt's goal disallowed | OneFootball

World Cup 2026 qualifiers: Hossam Hassan protests refereeing after Egypt's goal disallowed

The eighth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers between Burkina Faso and Egypt left a bitter taste for the Pharaohs after a draw marred by a controversial refereeing decision, according to coach Hossam Hassan.

The incident in question involved a goal scored by Osama Faisal in the 66th minute, following a brilliant header assist from captain Mohamed Salah. In the post-match press conference, Egypt's head coach Hossam Hassan highlighted the disallowed goal that could have secured his team's victory and qualification.

First, Hassan expressed his astonishment at the decision made by Congolese referee Messie Jessie Ovid Nkounkou Mfoutou.

The 59-year-old coach then acknowledged the referee's authority, saying: "He is the judge and he made the decision," before pointing out that the video footage contradicts the call.

Hossam addressed the journalists: "And you, what do you think?" urging the media to review the footage themselves to prove the refereeing injustice.

This was one of the standout chances for Mohamed Salah and his teammates, who were largely dominated by the Stallions throughout the match.