As reported by NDTV, Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt, but the Round of 16 clash has been overshadowed by major VAR controversy, with the Egyptian camp claiming crucial officiating decisions went against them.

Egypt looked on course for a famous victory after taking a commanding 2-0 lead, only for two contentious VAR moments to shift the momentum in Argentina’s favour before Enzo Fernandez struck a stoppage-time winner.

Controversial VAR decision changes the match

According to NDTV, Egypt believed they had put one foot in the quarter-finals when Mostafa Ziko found the net. However, referee Francois Letexier was instructed by VAR to review the build-up on the pitchside monitor.

After watching the replay, Letexier ruled out the goal for a foul by Marwan Attia on Lisandro Martinez. The incident involved Attia pulling Martinez and stepping on his foot, but it reportedly occurred around 10 seconds before the goal and almost 100 yards away from where Ziko eventually scored, leading to widespread debate over whether VAR should have intervened.

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Egypt furious after Salah penalty appeal ignored

Egypt’s frustration only intensified late in the match when Mohamed Salah appealed for a penalty after going down inside the Argentina box following a challenge from Julian Alvarez.

Replays appeared to show a shirt pull and possible foot-on-foot contact, but Letexier waved play on and VAR did not recommend an on-field review. The decision drew comparisons with the earlier intervention that disallowed Egypt’s goal, with many questioning the consistency of the technology’s use.

Argentina completed their remarkable comeback when Enzo Fernandez scored the winner deep into stoppage time, sealing a 3-2 victory and eliminating Egypt from the tournament.

Speaking after the match, Egypt coach Hossam Hassan reportedly vented his anger over the officiating, arguing that the key VAR decisions heavily favoured Argentina. As highlighted by NDTV, the match has reignited debate over the consistency of VAR in football’s biggest competition.

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