World Cup 2026: Argentina’s victory over Egypt dents Michael Oliver’s final hopes

Argentina’s dramatic victory over Egypt in the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has significantly reduced the likelihood of English referee Michael Oliver taking charge of the tournament final.

The defending champions came from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book a quarter-final meeting with Switzerland, but their continued presence in the competition has also affected FIFA’s options when assigning match officials for the closing stages.

According to The Sun, Oliver is unlikely to be considered for any match involving either England or Argentina, with FIFA traditionally avoiding appointments that could be viewed as politically sensitive.

Historic rivalry limits appointment options

The report says the long-standing tensions between the United Kingdom and Argentina, stemming from the 1982 Falklands War, have historically influenced referee appointments involving the two nations.

A similar situation arose at the 2022 World Cup, when fellow English referee Anthony Taylor was reportedly no longer in contention to officiate the final once Argentina advanced to face France.

Quarter-finals could end Oliver’s hopes

Argentina will face Switzerland in the quarter-finals, while England meet Norway for a place in the last four.

Should both teams reach the semi-finals, one of them would be guaranteed a place in the World Cup final, effectively ruling Oliver out of officiating the tournament’s showpiece match under FIFA’s appointment principles.

Despite that possibility, the English official continues to play a prominent role at the competition.

Oliver has already overseen three matches at the 2026 World Cup—two during the group stage and one in the Round of 16—and is scheduled to referee Friday’s quarter-final between Spain and Belgium.

His appointment to the knockout stages underlines FIFA’s confidence in one of its most experienced referees, even if the path to the World Cup final now appears increasingly difficult.