(foto: Getty Images)
Egypt's players blasted the referee after surrendering a two-goal lead against Argentina, insisting key decisions went against them in the dramatic World Cup defeat.
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Egypt came within touching distance of one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 World Cup before suffering a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Argentina, and emotions boiled over after the final whistle.
The Pharaohs led 2-0 until the 79th minute, only to concede three late goals as the defending champions completed a stunning comeback to reach the quarter-finals.
Following the dramatic defeat, Egypt striker Mostafa Ziko openly criticised the officiating, claiming several key decisions went against his team.
"The referee was unfair. God is enough for me, and He will reveal the truth. The effort of an entire nation was wasted. They'll give the trophy to Argentina," Ziko said after the match.
The Egyptian camp believed they should have been awarded a penalty deep into stoppage time when Mohamed Salah went down inside the box during one of their final attacks.
Players also questioned an earlier incident involving Alexis Mac Allister, arguing that a foul should have been called before Argentina launched the move that ultimately led to the winning goal.
Neither incident resulted in a VAR intervention, leaving Egyptian players and staff visibly frustrated after the final whistle.
Despite the painful ending, Egypt enjoyed one of the finest World Cup campaigns in the nation's history. Reaching the Round of 16 represented a major achievement, and for almost 80 minutes, they looked capable of eliminating the reigning world champions.
Instead, Argentina produced one of the tournament's greatest comebacks, leaving Egypt to wonder what might have been after letting a two-goal advantage slip away.