Egypt calls on FIFA to exclude referees

Egypt calls on FIFA to exclude referees

Egypt has formally lodged a complaint with FIFA demanding the exclusion of referees following their controversial defeat by Argentina in the round of 16 of the World Cup. The Argentina national team, the defending champions, managed to come back from a dramatic 0-2 deficit and win the game 3-2. This turnaround came after several controversial decisions by the referees, which were heavily criticized by the Egyptian team. In the first half, a goal by Mostafa Ziko for Egypt was disallowed due to a questionable decision. Mohamed Salah also called for a penalty before Argentina played a quick counterattack that led to Enzo Fernandez's header in stoppage time. The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) confirmed in a statement that they have filed a complaint with FIFA to "preserve justice and the integrity of the competition." According to a report by BBC Sport, Hany Abou Rida, president of the Egyptian Football Association, said that an investigation is being called into French referee Francois Letexier and his team. He described the refereeing decisions as serious errors that contributed to Egypt's elimination from the tournament. The EFA also expressed dissatisfaction with the "inadequate use of VAR" and noted that the game "raised deep questions about the consistency and fairness of the decisions that directly influenced the course of the game." They are calling for an investigation into the referees because they failed to check "clear errors". The EFA speaks of "discrimination" against the Egyptian national team and emphasizes its determination to take all measures necessary to protect the team's rights. After the game, goalscorer Ziko expressed outrage, accusing the tournament of being "rigged" and of being "steered towards Argentina". "The referee really wasn't fair," said Ziko after the final whistle. "The injustice was obvious. We performed really well in the early stages of the game. A 2-0 lead is not enough to beat Argentina. It's clear that this tournament has been rigged. But God is enough for us." Egypt coach Hossam Hassan stated that he would "never watch the World Cup again because there is no justice in this competition." After Argentina deprived Egypt of the dream of a first quarterfinal in history, the team will now face Switzerland on Saturday in Kansas City.

Frequently asked questions

Why did Egypt file a complaint with FIFA?

Egypt has filed a complaint with FIFA to demand the expulsion of referees after their controversial defeat by Argentina in the round of 16 of the World Cup.

What was the reason for the controversy in the match between Egypt and Argentina?

The controversy arose from several controversial decisions by the referees, including disallowing a goal by Mostafa Ziko and a missed penalty for Mohamed Salah.

Who is the President of the Egyptian Football Association?

The President of the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) is Hany Abou Rida.

What is Egypt demanding regarding the referee Francois Letexier?

Egypt calls for an investigation into French referee Francois Letexier and his team for serious errors that contributed to Egypt's elimination from the tournament.

What criticism did the EFA express about the use of VAR in the game?

The EFA expressed dissatisfaction with the inadequate de use of VAR and found that the game raised questions about the consistency and fairness of the decisions.

Read more on our latest coverage and stay tuned for updates on what happens next.

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