They want Messi in the tournament: Egypt boss makes explosive FIFA claim

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan launched a scathing remark on the match officials and questioned the integrity of the FIFA World Cup following his side's dramatic 3-2 defeat to Argentina, alleging that tournament organisers wanted Lionel Messi to remain in the competition for commercial reasons.

Egypt surrendered a two-goal lead before crashing out of the tournament, with Argentina scoring three times late in the match to complete a remarkable comeback and book their place in the next round.

Speaking after the match, Hassan claimed a key refereeing decision had changed the course of the contest, insisting Egypt had been denied a legitimate goal.

"Our valid goal was disallowed, and I don't know why. It was never the right decision," Hassan said. "Watching everything that happened, I felt there was a desire to keep Lionel Messi in the tournament at all costs because of the enormous commercial and marketing interests involved."

The Egyptian coach argued that his team had been the better side and suggested that factors beyond football influenced the outcome.

"We played excellent football today, but football was unfair to us. Argentina are the defending champions, and having Messi in the tournament is more valuable for sponsors and marketing. The referee treated Egypt unfairly throughout the match. I didn't see any sporting justice."

Egypt made a dream start, taking the lead through Yasser Ibrahim in the 15th minute before Mostafa Ziko doubled the advantage in the 67th minute.

However, Argentina mounted a stunning late fightback, with Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and an injury-time winner from Enzo Fernández sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory.

Egyptian officials have since argued that several controversial refereeing decisions played a decisive role in the comeback. The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has already submitted an official complaint to FIFA, calling for an investigation into the officiating.

Despite his frustration, Hassan praised his players for their commitment and apologized to Egyptian and Arab supporters following the heartbreaking exit.

"I apologise to the people of Egypt and the entire Arab world. We wanted to make them proud and go as far as possible. My players gave everything on the pitch, and I am proud of them. Our dream does not end here—we will come back stronger."

FIFA has yet to comment on either Hassan's remarks or the EFA's formal complaint.