FIFA Defends World Cup Refereeing After Egypt Files Formal Complaint

FIFA has defended the refereeing and VAR protocols used during Argentina's 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt, following a formal complaint from the Egyptian Football Association. The complaint alleged that match officials were influenced by external pressure during the dramatic match.

Pierluigi Collina, FIFA's chief of refereeing, stated that the officials acted independently and that no external factors affected their decisions. He dismissed claims that the outcome was influenced by outside forces.

Egypt's complaint centered on several key decisions, including a penalty awarded to Argentina and a disallowed Egyptian goal. FIFA reviewed the complaint and concluded that the officiating was in line with standard protocols.

Collina emphasized that FIFA stands by its referees and the VAR system, which he said functioned correctly throughout the match. He reiterated that the integrity of the game remains a top priority for the organization.

The Egyptian federation has not indicated whether it will pursue further action. FIFA considers the matter closed, with Collina urging focus on the remaining World Cup matches.