
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan gestures with crossed arms as referee Francois Letexier shows a yellow card during the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt in Atlanta, Georgia, the United States, July 7, 2026. (Photo: VCG)
Egyptian Football Association President Hany Abo Rida has filed a formal complaint with FIFA against French referee Francois Letexier and his officiating team following Egypt's 3-2 defeat to Argentina, Spanish sports daily AS reported, citing official sources.
The complaint reportedly requests an explanation for several disputed decisions that Egypt believes went against the team, calls for an investigation into the officiating, and asks FIFA to remove Letexier and his crew from the remainder of the tournament over what the federation considers decisive errors.
Egypt were 2-0 up with 11 minutes left of their last 16 clash against the holders Argentina, close to one of the great World Cup upsets, only to concede three goals in the closing stages and go out.
Egypt netted in the 62nd minute through Mostafa Zico, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review that found a foul in the buildup. They also claimed a late penalty after a tug on Hamdy Fathy.
"What happened to us wasn't fair. We should have had a penalty; a goal was disallowed, and I don't know why it was disallowed," Egypt coach Hossam Hassan told a press conference.
"Even if the goals came from mistakes, the biggest mistake is not getting what you're entitled to from those responsible for making the decisions," he said.
(With input from Reuters)