Following Egypt’s heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, Hossam Hassan launched a scathing attack on the match officials, claiming his side had been treated unfairly and that crucial refereeing decisions changed the outcome of the contest.
Egypt Squander 2-0 Lead
Egypt appeared on course for one of the tournament’s biggest upsets after taking a 2-0 lead in the second half.
However, Argentina mounted a remarkable comeback, with goals from:
- Cristian Romero
- Lionel Messi
- Enzo Fernández
The winning goal arrived in stoppage time, sending the defending champions into the quarter-finals.
Hossam Hassan: “We Have Suffered Injustice”
An emotional Hassan accused the refereeing team of denying Egypt fair treatment.
“We have been treated unfairly today. We have suffered injustice.”
During the post-match press conference, the Egypt coach also made the “X” gesture commonly associated with reporting racial abuse, suggesting his team had been victimized during the contest.
Fury Over VAR Decisions
Egypt’s biggest complaints centered on two major incidents:
- A goal by Mostafa Ziko that was ruled out following a lengthy VAR review.
- A late penalty appeal involving Mohamed Salah that the referee did not review on the pitchside monitor.
Hassan insisted those decisions heavily influenced the final result.
“A penalty was ruled out. A second incident that should have resulted in a penalty for us was not even checked by VAR.”
Egyptian FA Files Official Complaint
The Egyptian Football Association later issued a statement criticizing the officiating and the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
According to the federation, several key decisions raised serious concerns about the consistency and fairness of the match.
Heated End to the Match
The final whistle sparked chaotic scenes near the Egyptian bench.
Reports stated that:
- Goalkeeping coach Saafan Elsaghir received a red card.
- Multiple Egyptian staff members were booked.
- Officials had to intervene to calm the protests directed toward referee François Letexier.
Hassan Vows to Stop Watching the Tournament
Still visibly upset after the match, Hassan said he had no desire to watch the remainder of the World Cup.
“From the moment I go back, I’m not going to watch a single match of this FIFA World Cup.”
Argentina Advance
With the victory, Argentina progressed to the World Cup quarter-finals, where they are set to face Switzerland.