FIFA Defends World Cup Refereeing After Egypt Files Formal Complaint

FIFA's refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina said the match officials acted independently and rejected suggestions that external pressure influenced the result. His comments came after the Egyptian Football Association filed a formal complaint with FIFA, alleging that several key decisions in the match were incorrect.

The complaint centered on a penalty awarded to Argentina in the second half, which helped the two-time champions level the score at 2-2. Egypt also disputed a disallowed goal in the closing minutes that would have given them a 4-3 lead.

Collina emphasized that VAR protocols were followed correctly and that the on-field referee, along with the video assistant referee team, made decisions based on their own judgment. He added that FIFA has full confidence in the officials' integrity and professionalism.

The Egyptian FA has not yet indicated whether it will pursue further action, but the complaint has put the spotlight on the use of VAR in high-stakes matches. FIFA has not announced any formal review process beyond the standard post-match assessment.

Argentina went on to win the match 3-2, with a late goal from Lautaro Martínez sealing the comeback. The result keeps Argentina's hopes alive in the group stage, while Egypt now faces an uphill battle to advance.