Egypt Coach Hossam Hassan Alleges FIFA Favoured Messi After Argentina's Dramatic Comeback
Following Egypt's heartbreaking Round of 16 exit, Hossam Hassan claimed FIFA wanted Lionel Messi and Argentina to remain in the 2026 World Cup.
Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has ignited fresh controversy after accusing FIFA of favouring Lionel Messi and defending champions Argentina following his side's dramatic 3-2 defeat in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
Egypt appeared on course for one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history after taking a 2-0 lead against Argentina. However, the defending champions staged a sensational late comeback, with Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernández scoring three goals in just 13 minutes to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Speaking after the match, a visibly disappointed Hassan alleged that FIFA wanted Messi to continue in the tournament and claimed Argentina received support throughout the contest.
The Egyptian coach argued that his team had controlled large portions of the game and deserved a different outcome, suggesting that factors beyond football played a role in the result. His comments came amid growing debate over key refereeing decisions, including a VAR intervention that ruled out an earlier goal for Egypt.
The dramatic defeat sparked frustration throughout the Egyptian camp, with players and coaching staff questioning the officiating after surrendering a two-goal advantage in the closing stages.
Argentina's victory sends the three-time world champions into the quarter-finals, where they will face Switzerland, who advanced after defeating Colombia in a penalty shootout.
Hassan's remarks have added to the ongoing controversy surrounding Argentina's win, with discussions over refereeing and VAR decisions continuing to dominate headlines following one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament.
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