World Cup 2026: “Rigged match” – Hossam Hassan blasts officials after Egypt’s controversial defeat to Argentina

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has strongly criticised the circumstances surrounding his side’s dramatic World Cup exit, claiming the Pharaohs were denied a fair chance during their Round of 16 defeat to defending champions Argentina.

Egypt looked set to produce one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after racing into a two-goal lead. However, Argentina staged a remarkable late comeback to claim a 3-2 victory and secure a place in the quarter-finals.

Egypt left devastated after dramatic turnaround

The Pharaohs had one foot in the last eight after goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico put them in control against the reigning world champions.

But the match turned in Argentina’s favour in the closing stages, with Cristian Romero reducing the deficit before Lionel Messi levelled the contest. Enzo Fernandez then struck deep into stoppage time to complete the comeback and end Egypt’s World Cup dream.

The encounter was also marked by several contentious refereeing decisions, including the VAR review that ruled out one of Zico’s goals in the second half.

Hassan delivers explosive post-match verdict

Speaking after the final whistle, Hassan voiced his frustration over the officiating and suggested the outcome of the contest had been predetermined.

“I will say what’s on my mind regardless of the consequence, this was clearly a rigged match and the whole world saw it.”

The Egypt coach did not stop there, questioning why teams were invited to compete if, in his view, the result had already been decided.

“And I want to say one more thing, if they want them [Argentina] to win so bad, why call everyone to come and participate?”

Refereeing debate continues after Egypt’s exit

Hassan’s comments add to the growing criticism from within the Egyptian camp following their elimination, with players and officials expressing disappointment over several key decisions made during the match.

The VAR decision to disallow Mostafa Zico’s second-half goal has remained one of the biggest talking points, while other incidents involving challenges inside Argentina’s penalty area have also sparked debate among supporters and pundits.

Despite the controversy, Argentina advanced to the quarter-finals after completing the first comeback from a two-goal deficit in the nation’s World Cup history, while Egypt bowed out after producing one of their most memorable performances on football’s biggest stage.