FIFA’s Head of Refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, has dismissed allegations of bias in Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the integrity and independence of the tournament’s match officials are beyond question.
According to Reuters, Collina made the remarks in an interview published on FIFA’s official website on Thursday, following complaints by the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) and Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan after Tuesday’s controversial Round of 16 defeat to the defending champions.
The controversy arose after Egypt squandered a two-goal lead before Enzo Fernández scored a stoppage-time winner to seal Argentina’s comeback victory.
In the aftermath of the match, Hassan suggested there may have been pressure to keep Lionel Messi and Argentina in the tournament, while the EFA formally requested an investigation into what it described as “double standards” in officiating.
Responding to the allegations, Collina said criticism of refereeing decisions is a normal part of football but warned against questioning the integrity of match officials.
“Constructive discussion about decisions will always be part of football, but unfounded allegations have no place in our sport,” he said.
“Nobody can question the integrity of the FIFA World Cup match officials.
“When this happens, it may provoke reactions that lead to threats against them and their families. This is not right.”
The former Italian referee also rejected suggestions that FIFA officials could be influenced by external figures, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
“Nobody can claim that FIFA refereeing can be influenced by anyone, not even by the FIFA president,” Collina said.
“He has always shown his full support for FIFA Team One while trusting us to work with complete independence. Match officials make honest decisions and, just like players and coaches, they always try to do their best.”
