Egypt file formal complaint with FIFA over 'double standards' in World Cup defeat to Argentina

The Egyptian Football Association has officially requested that FIFA remove the officiating crew from the World Cup after what it calls a series of biased decisions in their dramatic last-16 loss to Argentina. In a statement released Friday, the EFA confirmed it had lodged a formal complaint with world football's governing body, demanding an investigation into what it described as "double standards" of officiating during the match in Atlanta. Egypt were leading 1-0 early in the second half when midfielder Mostafa Zico had a goal disallowed following a VAR review. The technology ruled that Marwan Attia had stepped on Lisandro Martínez's foot in the buildup, a decision the Egyptians believe was far too harsh. Minutes later, with the score level, Mohamed Salah appeared to be brought down inside the Argentine penalty area. No penalty was given, and seconds after that, the reigning champions broke away to score a stoppage-time winner, completing a 3-2 victory. EFA president Hany Abou Rida filed the complaint against French referee François Letexier, accusing the entire officiating team of "blatant errors" and refusing to review certain replay angles. The federation has called for Letexier and his crew to be removed from the tournament while an investigation is conducted. Egypt also alleged discrimination, saying they were treated unfairly compared to Argentina. "Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champion in the competition. Perhaps they wanted Messi to stay in the running," said Egypt manager Hossam Hassan after the match. "We suffered injustice." Zico was equally blunt: "The referee was really unfair. The injustice was clear. It is clear that this tournament has been fixed." Argentina, led by Lionel Messi in what could be his final World Cup, fought back from a goal down. Messi set up the equalizer in the 79th minute and scored himself four minutes later before the dramatic late winner. The South Americans now face Switzerland in Kansas City on Saturday. sources has contacted FIFA for comment. Egypt have never advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals.