Egypt’s Saafan El-Saghir banned for two matches after Argentina World Cup clash

FIFA has suspended Egypt goalkeeper coach Saafan El-Saghir for two matches and fined him $47,000 following his dismissal during the Pharaohs’ 2026 World Cup last-16 match against Argentina.

The disciplinary action relates to El-Saghir’s strong objections to the referee’s decisions during a tense encounter that featured significant controversy over the officiating.

Yalla Kora, citing a source within the Egyptian Football Association, reported that FIFA’s punishment includes a two-match suspension as well as the financial penalty of $47,000.

“The punishment issued by FIFA against Saafan El-Saghir includes a two-match suspension, in addition to a financial fine of $47,000, following the events that took place during Egypt’s meeting with Argentina in the last 16 of the World Cup,” the source said.

El-Saghir was sent off during the match after protesting forcefully against decisions made by the referee. His dismissal came in a game that generated considerable debate over the match officials’ calls.

Egypt eventually exited the tournament after losing 3-2 to Argentina. The defeat ended their participation in the competition at the last-16 stage, while the disciplinary consequences of the match continued after the final whistle.

FIFA’s decision means El-Saghir will be unavailable for Egypt’s next two matches covered by the suspension. The ruling also brings a substantial financial penalty for the goalkeeper coach, whose conduct during the Argentina fixture was the focus of the case.

The incident formed part of the wider fallout from Egypt’s meeting with Argentina, which was decided by a five-goal scoreline. Despite scoring twice, Egypt were beaten 3-2 and eliminated from the 2026 World Cup.

The case centred on El-Saghir’s reaction to the referee rather than on the result itself. FIFA has now formally closed that disciplinary matter with a two-match ban and a $47,000 fine.