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Argentina's dramatic 3-2 win over Egypt in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 sparked a social media storm, with fans alleging FIFA favoured Lionel Messi and the defending champions. Egypt supporters were left furious after a disallowed goal, a rejected penalty appeal and the controversial winner by Enzo Fernandez, prompting viral claims that the African side had been "robbed in broad daylight".

Argentina's dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 has sparked a fresh wave of controversy, with social media users accusing FIFA of favouring Lionel Messi and the defending champions. While Argentines celebrated the euphoria of a stunning win, Egypt and the rest of the world were quick to turn and point to some of the controversial decisions taken by the referee during the match.

While Ziko scored the second of Egypt's goals, he had an earlier goal ruled out for a foul in the build up. Later, Egypt's appeals for a penalty were also denied. The African nation were also fuming at Enzo Fernandez's winner, which they believed should not have stood.

The decisions triggered an outpouring of reactions on X, where hashtags and phrases such as "FIFA Corruption Strikes Again," "Rigged for Messi," and "Egypt were robbed" gained traction. Messi had earlier been lucky to escape a red card in the group stage, which many believe is the FIFA's favourtism towards the Argentine.

Despite the controversy, Argentina advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals, while debate over the officiating continued to dominate social media long after the final whistle.