Lionel Messi and Argentina will aim to make it back to back World Cup finals as they gear up to face England in the semi-final. Messi, who is the golden boot leader, has been handed a big boost with referee Ismail Elfath to officiate the game. The 39-year-old hasn't lost any game the Moroccan-American official has taken charge of.
FIFA has come under the scanner once again as Argentina gear up to face off against England in the World Cup 2026 semi-final in Atlanta. The world body has appointed Moroccan-American referee Ismail Elfath to officiate the match, drawing criticism from social media. Elfath predominantly plies his trade in the MLS and Lionel Messi remains unbeaten in all five matches officiated by him.
Elfath served as the fourth official during the 2022 FIFA World Cup final in Qatar, where Argentina defeated France to lift the trophy. He also officiated the Leagues Cup final in which Inter Miami defeated Nashville SC to claim the club's first-ever trophy.
The criticism comes on the background of growing claims of Argentina getting the rub of the green in many controversial moments over the last two World Cup editions. Argentina's win over Egypt was marred by controversy, while Messi earlier escaped a red card in the same game he scored a hat-trick.
The controversy comes at a time when FIFA is facing fresh scrutiny following allegations related to corruption and governance. Separately, reports have also highlighted accusations of money laundering involving officials linked to the Argentine Football Association.
-
Transfer buzz: Arsenal target Tzolis as Trossard successor, Al Hilal enter chase for Summerville
-
Pakistan Scrambles To Contain PoK Protests, Muzaffarabad March Deferred To July 21
-
Rayan Cherki reacts sharply to question on Lucas Digne after France’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain
-
BGMI 4.5 Update Rolls Out Tomorrow: Key Update Introduces Naruto To The Battlegrounds With New Map, Ninja Powers & Kurama Boss Fight
-
KGMU's Ban On Non-Veg Food In Hostel Messes Sparks Political Row
