Egypt forward Mostafa Ziko has launched a scathing attack on the match officials following his side’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Pharaohs looked destined for a place in the quarter-final after Yasser Ibrahim and Ziko gave them a two-goal advantage before the defending champions staged a stunning late comeback through Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernández.
Reacting after the heartbreaking defeat, Ziko accused the referee of denying Egypt a fair chance and expressed his frustration over the outcome of the contest.
“The referee is unfair. God is sufficient for me and the best disposer of affairs. He’s wasting the effort of an entire nation,” Ziko said.
The Egyptian attacker went a step further by suggesting the competition was favouring the reigning world champions.
“The trophy is directed towards Argentina,” he added.
Argentina’s victory sends the Albiceleste into the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of the Round of 16 clash between Switzerland and Colombia, while Egypt’s World Cup journey comes to an end after surrendering a two-goal lead.
