The referee panel for the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final between Argentina and England has been announced. Lionel Messi and his men should be happy to have one familiar face on the pitch in the form of Ismail Elfath. The Moroccan-American was the fourth official in the 2022 final, where Argentina triumphed over France to secure their third title. He has also overseen several Inter Miami matches at the Major League Soccer (MLS) involving Messi. Elfath’s appointment has just fuelled the controversy surrounding Argentina, with many fans claiming that FIFA has “favoured” the defending champions on several occasions.
Who are the referees for England vs Argentina?
While Ismail Elfath has been named the on-field referee, he will be assisted by Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins. Italian referee Maurizio Mariani is the fourth official, and Daniele Bindoni remains in reserve.
Referring in Argentina’s World Cup matches has come under scrutiny after Egypt and Switzerland complained of bias following their knockout defeats. Both teams complained that many decisions went in the South Americans’ favour, sparking debate about the fairness of the competition.
“When you have the referee against you, it becomes difficult. Every little thing was called against us. Every dive and every foul by the Argentinians went unpunished,” Swiss defender Manuel Akanji said after losing the World Cup quarter-final 1-3 to Argentina.
I don’t usually say anything against the officials, but I’ve never experienced such a one-sided game as today,” he added.
The Egyptian FA also raised questions over French referee Francois Letexier, who handled their Round of 16 clash against Argentina. The African side also submitted a formal complaint to FIFA demanding strict actions against the officials.
What record does Lionel Messi have with Ismail Elfath in charge?
Lionel Messi didn’t lose any game when Ismail Elfath was in the referee panel. After a 3-3 draw after 120 minutes, Argentina won the FIFA World Cup 2022 summit clash 4-2 on penalties. Elfath has also overseen four MLS games featuring Messi, and the Argentine had the last laugh in all of them.
