Lionel Messi has been central to the World Cup, creating key moments in matches. Yet officials including Gianni Infantino, Donald Trump, team managers, referees and video review systems have also played major roles. Allegations of conspiracy, corruption and match fixing have added layers of intrigue to the tournament.
Tensions rose after Egypt coach Hossam Hassan suggested following Argentina’s 3-2 win that referees faced pressure to favor Messi. He pointed to two key calls: a goal disallowed for a foul on Lisandro Martinez and a penalty not given after Alexis Mac Allister challenged Mohamed Salah.
Under rules, video review examines the build-up to every goal and cancels it for clear fouls. Debate continues over whether the incidents met that standard, as both appeared minor. Hassan stated the outcome lacked fairness and implied the tournament favored Argentina.
Reactions varied across football. Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho noted that external forces can alter results. Chess figure Garry Kasparov criticized FIFA for bias toward prominent players and referenced similar complaints from Croatia.
Social media highlighted earlier decisions seen as helpful to Argentina, including a challenge by Messi on an Algeria player that went unpunished. Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic acknowledged the incident was visible.
Past World Cups have featured referee controversies, such as those in 2002 and 1978. The current edition includes additional political and ethical elements, including visa issues for Iran and statements from its president about host nation conduct.
Players from both sides waited for video review after an Iran goal was overturned in a group match.
