As reported by GIVEMESPORT, Argentina booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt at the Atlanta Stadium, but the reigning champions’ progress has been overshadowed by fierce controversy over refereeing and VAR decisions.

Egypt looked on course for one of the biggest upsets of the tournament after taking a 2-0 lead by the 67th minute through Mostafa Ziko. However, Argentina mounted a remarkable comeback as Lionel Messi, who moved to the top of the Golden Boot standings with eight goals, and Cristian Romero struck within four minutes to level the contest before Enzo Fernandez scored a stoppage-time winner.

Controversial VAR decisions spark fury

According to GIVEMESPORT, the match was dominated by debate over two major officiating decisions that left Egypt’s players and coaching staff incensed.

The first came in the 58th minute when Egypt had a goal ruled out following a VAR review for a foul on Lisandro Martinez in the build-up. Then, moments before Argentina’s decisive goal, Egypt appealed for a penalty after Mohamed Salah appeared to be fouled inside the area, but referee Francois Letexier allowed play to continue and VAR did not intervene.

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Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright questioned the consistency of the decisions while analysing the match on ITV Sport.

“That’s what’s happening with VAR now, they’re pulling it back. If you’re going to pull it back for Argentina on the edge of the box to disallow a goal, you have to pull it back for this one with Mo Salah,” Wright said. “He’s been caught. Whatever we say, it might be minimal, he’s been caught and then they go up the other end.”

Alan Shearer also criticised the officiating, writing on X: “Either both are fouls or neither is a foul. But they’re not going to re-referee they told us.”

Egypt coach makes explosive accusation

As highlighted by GIVEMESPORT, Egypt manager Hossam Hassan delivered the strongest criticism after the final whistle, suggesting commercial interests had influenced the outcome.

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“They want Argentina and Messi to stay in the World Cup for marketing,” Hassan claimed, alleging bias in favour of the defending champions and their captain.

Egypt’s frustration was also reflected by goalscorer Mostafa Ziko, who reportedly described the tournament as “rigged” in Argentina’s favour after the match, further fuelling the growing controversy surrounding FIFA and VAR.

Despite the backlash, Argentina secured their place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Switzerland at the Kansas City Stadium on Saturday night (Sunday, 2am BST). The winners will then meet either England or Norway in the semi-finals on July 15 at the Atlanta Stadium.

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