FIFA has hit back at stinging allegations from Egypt following their World Cup elimination by Argentina, with refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina dismissing claims of bias as completely unfounded. Egypt had demanded an investigation into the match and sought to have match officials removed from the tournament.
Collina Defends Match Officials
“Of course, constructive discussion about decisions will always be part of football, but unfounded allegations have no place in our sport,” Collina 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.”
Collina also rejected claims that FIFA refereeing could be influenced by anyone, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “Match officials make honest decisions and, just like players and coaches, they always try to do their best,” he added.
England's Quansah Handed Two-Match Ban
Meanwhile, FIFA is dealing with a furious England team after defender Jarell Quansah received a two-match suspension. The red card was issued following a VAR review in a thrilling clash with Mexico, after Quansah made a dangerous tackle on Mexico’s Jesús Gallardo. Initially, it was accepted that Quansah would miss Saturday’s quarter-final against Norway, but FIFA extended the ban to two matches, meaning he will also miss the semi-final if England progress.
Appeal Not Possible
The English Football Association considered an appeal, buoyed by FIFA’s decision to suspend USA striker Folarin Balogun’s ban following a call from Donald Trump. However, an appeal is not possible in this instance. Sky Sports football reporter Rob Dorsett said, “England cannot appeal against Jarell Quansah’s two match ban under FIFA rules, but I understand coach Thomas Tuchel is furious at the decision. He asked FA officials to lodge their dissatisfaction to FIFA’s disciplinary committee in the strongest terms.”
Social Media Outrage and Ronaldo's Suspension
The decision sparked mass outrage on social media, with fans again making corruption claims. In a separate development, football legend Cristiano Ronaldo received a three-match international ban in 2025 and had missed one game. However, the FIFA disciplinary committee invoked Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code and suspended the remaining two matches of the suspension, which would have coincided with Portugal’s first two World Cup games.
