Egypt’s Heartbreaking World Cup Exit Against Argentina

The match between Egypt and Argentina had all the makings of a fairytale for Mohamed Salah and the Pharaohs. With a solid lead against the defending World Cup champions, it seemed Egypt was on the brink of an upset. However, a late-game collapse led to Argentina’s 3-2 victory in the round of 16, leaving Egypt devastated.

The climax came during stoppage time when Argentina scored the winning goal. The tension was palpable, especially near the Egyptian bench, where goalkeeping coach Saafan Elsaghir received a red card. Elsaghir had to be restrained as frustrations spilled over regarding the referee’s decisions. Multiple yellow cards were also issued to Egyptian players protesting Argentina’s final goal.

Egypt’s coach, Hossam Hassan, expressed his discontent by holding up both arms in an “X” shape, signaling racial abuse. He accused the soccer establishment of unfair treatment, suggesting that the governing body favored Messi and Argentina advancing in pursuit of their title defense. “We have been treated unfairly today,” Hassan commented, underscoring his belief that his team deserved a win but took pride in their performance despite the loss.

The tournament’s credibility faced scrutiny, accentuated by allegations against FIFA concerning external influences, including a changed suspension involving a U.S. player. Hassan’s disappointment was further fueled by a video review overturning a potential second goal. Despite these setbacks, Mostafa Zico’s late goal brought hope, giving Egypt a 2-0 lead.

Yet Argentina surged back, with Cristian Romero scoring in the 79th minute and Messi leveling with a powerful shot. Enzo Fernández’s triumphant goal in stoppage time sealed Egypt’s fate following a turnover involving Salah and thwarting his scoring attempt.

The Egyptian Football Association voiced concerns over the refereeing decisions and the misuse of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, challenging the fairness and consistency of key decisions during the match. Even NFL legend Tom Brady took to social media, comparing Argentina’s comeback to his historic Super Bowl win, but Hassan remained unfazed by such comments.

Hassan lashed out at the referee over a questionable non-call on Salah in the penalty area, requesting a review and expressing his disdain for the handling of the match. His remarks pointed to the broader implications of unfair treatment overshadowing respect and fair play.

Egypt, a team not having won a World Cup match until this tournament, faced a heartbreaking end despite gearing up for an all-out defensive stand. Yet Argentina’s resilience saw them to victory, continuing their journey to the quarterfinals against Switzerland, leaving Egypt’s tournament run in ruins.

Hassan, defeated but resolute, vowed to disengage from future matches, marking his stance against perceived inequalities with his refusal to watch further World Cup fixtures. His criticism persisted, accentuating his commitment to protest through abstention.

AP Soccer Writer James Robson contributed to this report.