Controversy over Argentina’s thrilling victory, injustice done to Egypt? Questions raised on decisions of referee and VAR

In the Round of 16 match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Argentina defeated Egypt 3-2 to reach the quarter-finals, but the biggest topic of the match was not Argentina’s victory but the controversial decisions of the referee and VAR. After the match, the Egyptian team, football experts and a large number of fans on social media questioned the decisions of the match officials.

There were many such occasions during the match, due to which controversy arose. Egyptian winger in the first half imam ashur Argentine defender on Nahuel Molina A foul was called for the challenge, but the referee continued the game. After this, Egypt’s star players in the second half mohammed salah The Argentine fell after a challenge in the penalty box, but despite a VAR review the penalty was not given.

TV replays also showed that the Argentinian defender nicholas tagliafico Contact was made with Salah’s foot. Despite this, Egypt’s players and supporters seemed angry due to not getting a penalty. Many former players and football analysts on social media also questioned these decisions and criticized the match officials.

The controversy was not limited to penalties only. An Egyptian goal in the second half was also disallowed after VAR review, which completely changed the course of the match. After these decisions the head coach of Egypt hossam hassan and players mostafa zico also openly expressed his displeasure.

Talking about the match, Egypt made a great start. Yasser Ibrahim And mostafa zico Had taken a 2-0 lead thanks to the goal. It seemed that the current world champion Argentina would be out of the tournament, but in the last minutes the team made a tremendous comeback.

in the 79th minute Christian Romero by Lionel Messi Scored the first goal with a header from a precise cross. Four minutes later, Messi scored the equalizing goal through a brilliant volley. in overtime Enzo Fernandez Scored the winning goal to give Argentina a memorable 3-2 victory.

Although Argentina made a brilliant comeback and got the ticket to the quarter-finals, the controversial decisions taken during the match have sparked a new debate in the entire football world. Many fans believe that questions are constantly being raised on the transparency and accuracy of VAR and referee decisions in such important matches.