World Cup 2026: Hossam Hassan lashes out at referee after Egypt held by Belgium

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has launched a fierce criticism of the match officials following his side’s 1–1 draw with Belgium, insisting his team were denied a “clear” penalty that could have changed the outcome of the Group G encounter.

Speaking after the match, the Egyptian coach expressed anger that the incident was not reviewed by the Video Assistant Referee system, claiming Egypt were left short-changed in a match they believed they could have won.

​”We had a penalty that was a million percent correct. I’m shocked the referee didn’t even check VAR. If it was against us, it would have been given. We were close to winning—Egypt is not a small team.

The draw leaves both sides level in the group standings after an evenly contested encounter in which Egypt matched Belgium for large stretches, frustrating the European side’s attacking rhythm.

Attention now shifts quickly to the next round of fixtures. Belgium will face Iran in their second Group G match in Los Angeles on Sunday at 20:00 BST, while Egypt travel to Vancouver where they take on New Zealand early on Monday at 02:00 BST.

With qualification still finely balanced, both teams remain firmly in contention, but Egypt’s coach has ensured the refereeing controversy will linger beyond the final whistle.