World Cup 2026: The cup is directed towards Argentina – ‘Furious’ Mostafa Ziko claims

Egypt forward Mostafa Ziko has backed head coach Hossam Hassan’s controversial claim that the World Cup is being tilted in favour of defending champions Argentina after their dramatic last-16 elimination.

The Pharaohs suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat on Tuesday, July 7, after surrendering a two-goal advantage in the closing stages of the match. Egypt appeared on course for a historic quarter-final place before Argentina produced a stunning late comeback.

Cristian Romero pulled one back before Lionel Messi equalised, with Enzo Fernandez completing the turnaround to send the holders through.

However, Egypt’s frustration centred around a major refereeing decision that denied Ziko what could have been a decisive third goal.

Ziko blasts VAR decision after Egypt heartbreak

The 29-year-old appeared to have scored during Egypt’s dominant spell, but the goal was overturned after a VAR review ruled there had been a foul in the build-up.

The decision left the Egyptian camp furious, with coach Hossam Hassan launching a strong criticism of the officiating after the final whistle.

Ziko has now repeated those sentiments, claiming the referee’s decision erased the hard work of the Egyptian players during their impressive performance against the world champions.

Speaking to Canadian broadcaster TSN through a translator, the forward said: “It was not fair from the referee. It was really not fair, that was very clear. He wasted all of our efforts with his decisions. We were leading 2-0 and we cannot do anything, it’s all up to God.”

Egypt left devastated after historic chance slips away

The defeat marked a painful end to Egypt’s campaign after they came within minutes of producing one of the biggest shocks of the tournament.

Ziko, who scored during the match, expressed his disappointment at failing to reward the millions of supporters who had followed the team’s journey.

“We are so sorry (to the people of Egypt). I am so sorry. We wanted to make you all happy. It was not in the cards,” he added.

The attacker then repeated the accusation made by his manager, saying: “It was the referee. The cup is directed towards Argentina.”