Hossam Hassan has launched a strong criticism of FIFA and the match officials following Egypt’s heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Argentina national football team in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.

Egypt appeared to be on course for one of the tournament’s biggest upsets after establishing a two-goal advantage. However, Argentina staged a dramatic late comeback, scoring three goals to secure a place in the quarter-finals while ending Egypt’s impressive campaign.

Speaking after the match, Hassan questioned several officiating decisions and suggested that Argentina received favourable treatment because of their status as defending champions and the presence of captain Lionel Messi.

The Egyptian coach expressed frustration over a disallowed goal following a VAR review and a rejected penalty appeal late in the match. Moments after Egypt’s penalty claims were waved away, Argentina scored the decisive winning goal, a sequence Hassan described as deeply unfair.

According to Hassan, the officiating decisions significantly influenced the outcome of the encounter. He claimed the world champions appeared to receive support throughout the match and suggested FIFA wanted Messi to remain in the competition, although he did not provide evidence to support those allegations.

Despite his disappointment, the Egyptian manager praised his players for their determination and discipline. He noted that many members of the squad compete in Egypt’s domestic league and commended their effort against one of international football’s strongest teams.

The dramatic contest has generated widespread debate among football fans, with discussions focusing on the referee’s decisions, the use of VAR, and whether key moments were handled correctly. FIFA had not publicly responded to Hassan’s allegations at the time of reporting.

Argentina’s victory sends the defending champions into the World Cup quarter-finals, while Egypt exits the tournament after an impressive run that won praise despite the painful ending.