Hassan claims Egypt’s World Cup last-16 tie against Argentina was rigged

​Hassan added: “If they want [Argentina] to win so badly, why invite everyone else to come and participate?”

​By Kehinde Okeowo

​Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has alleged that his team’s Round of 16 match at the 2026 World Cup was rigged in favour of Argentina.

​The Pharaohs threw away a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 on Tuesday evening at the Atlanta Stadium.

​Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico had given the North Africans a 2-0 lead in the 15th and 76th minutes respectively.

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​But late goals from Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi, and Enzo Fernandez sent the holders into the last eight.

​Speaking after the encounter, Hassan argued that several of the officiating decisions left a lot to be desired.

​“I will say what’s on my mind, regardless of the consequences,” Hassan said. “This was clearly a rigged match, and the whole world saw it.

​“And I want to say one more thing: if they want [Argentina] to win so badly, why invite everyone else to come and participate?”