World Cup 2026: Egypt fume at 'injustice' and make Messi favouritism claims after exit
With 12 minutes of normal time remaining Egypt stood on the cusp of their greatest ever World Cup result. The Pharaohs led Argentina the reigning world champions 2-0 in Atlanta Stadium, with a quarter-final spot beckoning for the football-mad African country. But when Cristian Romero reduced the deficit in the 79th minute, Egypt looked panic-stricken. Captain Lionel Messi made it 2-2 four minutes later, and Enzo Fernandez completed a remarkable turnaround with a header in the second minute of stoppage-time.
Egypt were downright furious after the video assistant referee ruled out a second goal by Mostafa Ziko for a foul after midfielder Marwan Attia was penalised for slightly stepping on Lisandro Martinez at the start of the move when they were leading 1-0. They were also adamant Mohamed Salah was fouled in Argentina's penalty area seconds before the reigning champions broke for the winner.
When French referee Francois Letexier signalled full-time, many of Egypt's players slumped to the floor in disbelief. Mohamed Salah swapped shirts with his former Liverpool team-mate Alexis MacAllister before walking off with his head bowed while other players stood shaking their heads.
Egyptian football expert Ahmad Yousef told BBC Radio 5 Live: "There is so much inconsistency at the moment with VAR and decisions and how far you go back to pull a decision. There was such a long distance that had gone by and the foul was so minimal so I completely understand why the Egyptian coaching staff and squad are so disappointed."
Mostafa Ziko alleged the match was rigged, stating: "It was a rigged game. It wasn't our fault. That referee it seems like this match was rigged. We were winning 2-0 and he kept coming at us."
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan claimed his nation suffered injustice, suggesting the hierarchy wanted to keep Messi and Argentina in the tournament. He said: "Why isn't there any fairness in sport? We have been treated unfairly today. We have suffered injustice. It could be a matter of marketing they could want to make a World Cup with the champion of the last World Cup they want Messi to exist in the tournament."