Argentina’s scarcely believable comeback against Egypt has not only sent them into the World Cup quarter-finals – it has forced FIFA into a dramatic change to how VAR operates for the remainder of the tournament. The world governing body announced that video assistant referees will be stationed inside the stadium for every remaining match, starting with Thursday’s clash between France and Morocco. Previously, VAR officials had been working from a central hub in Dallas, Texas, a decision FIFA said was taken to safeguard against potential technical issues.
The change comes amid furious complaints from Egypt after their 3-2 defeat, a match in which several key decisions went against them. Egypt boss Hossam Hassan did not hold back. “They want Messi to stay in the tournament,” he said. “In football, many things happen off the pitch because of interests. What happened was unfair. Egypt deserved to qualify. We were the better team.”
“FIFA moves VAR officials into stadiums after Egypt's furious complaints over Argentina's controversial comeback win.”
Five of the seven officials selected for France vs Morocco are Argentine, including referee Facundo Tello and VAR official Hernan Mastrangelo. That has fuelled allegations of favouritism towards Argentina, reminiscent of similar claims during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. FIFA’s refereeing chief, Pierluigi Collina, defended the officials involved in the Argentina-Egypt tie, insisting they cannot be influenced. “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. Equally, nobody can claim that FIFA refereeing can be influenced by anyone, not even by the FIFA president.”
Argentina now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals, while the tournament continues with England vs Norway on Saturday. But the shadow of controversy lingers – and FIFA’s swift VAR relocation suggests they are desperate to avoid any further technical or reputational damage.
