World Cup 2026: Why Argentina face claims of favourable refereeing after two complaints | OneFootball

Since the start of the World Cup, a string of incidents has fuelled claims of pro-Argentina officiating, with the Algerian and Egyptian federations turning to FIFA. AS reports that Egypt’s federation has asked FIFA to exclude French referee François Letexier.

The debate began in the opener against Algeria, a 3-0 win. Around the half-hour, Lionel Messi caught Aïssa Mandi with his studs, an offence some felt merited red, yet only a free-kick followed. Former referee Bruno Derrien said Messi could have been sent off.

Algeria’s federation later filed a complaint to FIFA alleging refereeing injustice and disputing several calls by Szymon Marciniak.

Against Cape Verde, further flashpoints drew scrutiny. A possible foul on Helio Varela outside the box went uncalled, Messi was allowed to take a free-kick as goalkeeper Vozinha arranged his wall, and a Medina handball in the centre circle was not penalised. Accusations of preferential treatment spread widely online.

Argentina were angered late on when a potential Cape Verde handball in the area was ignored, the arm appeared away from the body and neither referee Drew Fisher nor VAR intervened.

The pattern continued against Egypt, who lost 3-2. Head coach Hossam Hassan said what happened was not fair or equitable and suggested there might have been a desire to keep the holders, and Messi, in the tournament.

The debate recalls Qatar 2022, when Argentina’s penalties drew dispute. Derrien does not believe any instruction exists, noting referees compete for appointments and aim to stay out of the spotlight.

Source: Le Progres