Egypt Football Association demands action after controversial VAR and penalty calls

Following a dramatic 3‑2 loss to Argentina in the World Cup round of 16, the Egypt Football Association (EFA) sent a formal protest to FIFA. The protest centres on two decisions that the EFA describes as “clear errors.”

First, a legitimate Egyptian goal was disallowed after a VAR review that, according to the federation, showed no infringement. Second, a clear penalty situation was ignored, leaving Egypt without a chance to equalise late in the match.

EFA president Hany Abu Rida demanded that FIFA launch an independent investigation and consider removing referee Francois Letexier from future matches. The association also warned that similar officiating lapses could jeopardise the credibility of the tournament.

Coach Hassan, speaking after the game, highlighted that the result was affected by “factors beyond the pitch,” implying that the referee’s choices may have been influenced by a desire to keep the tournament’s marquee teams on course.