The 2026 FIFA World Cup is delivering non-stop drama as the knockout rounds unfold across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. From controversial refereeing decisions to managerial departures, here is everything you need to know.
Egypt vs. Argentina: The Controversy That Won’t Go Away
The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has formally lodged a complaint with FIFA, demanding that referee Francois Letexier and his entire officiating crew be removed from the tournament following Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory in Atlanta.
Egypt was leading 1-0 in the second half when VAR controversially ruled out a goal by Mostafa Zico, penalizing midfielder Marwan Attia for a foul on Lisandro Martinez at the start of the move. Minutes later, Egypt felt Mohamed Salah was fouled in the box before Argentina broke away to score the stoppage-time winner.
Lionel Messi, playing what could be his final World Cup, set up Argentina’s first goal in the 79th minute and scored the equalizer in the 83rd, completing a remarkable turnaround for the defending champions.
The referee was really unfair. The injustice was clear. It is clear that this tournament has been fixed. — Mostafa Zico
Egypt manager Hossam Hassan went further: “Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champion in the competition. Perhaps they wanted Messi to stay in the running.” FIFA has yet to respond to the complaint.
Portugal Confirms Martinez Departure
The Portuguese Football Federation has officially confirmed the departure of head coach Roberto Martinez following Portugal’s 1-0 last-16 defeat to Spain. Martinez, who had been in charge since January 2023, led Portugal to the 2025 UEFA Nations League title but fell short at both Euro 2024 and the World Cup.
“I came to Portugal with the objective of winning the World Cup, and because I haven’t won, it wouldn’t make sense to continue,” Martinez said. The 52-year-old’s decision to consistently start 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo drew heavy criticism. The FPF has already begun searching for a successor.
USA Eliminated, England March On
The United States exited the tournament after a defeat to Belgium, with head coach Mauricio Pochettino admitting his team “wasn’t good enough.” Meanwhile, England’s campaign continues after their win over Mexico, though several key players — including Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, and Michael Olise — are walking a disciplinary tightrope with yellow card accumulation risks.
Upcoming Quarter-Final Schedule
- Argentina vs. Switzerland — Saturday, July 11 | Kansas City
- Spain knocked out Portugal with a late Mikel Merino winner
- Belgium eliminated the United States to reach the quarter-finals
- England awaits their quarter-final opponent after beating Mexico
FAQ
Q: Why is Egypt so upset about the refereeing?
A: Egypt claims two critical decisions went against them: a VAR-disallowed goal for a marginal foul at the start of the move, and a penalty not given for a foul on Mohamed Salah, after which Argentina scored the winner.
Q: Can a formal complaint change anything?
A: Historically, FIFA rarely overturns results or punishes referees based on team complaints. The 2022 France protest over VAR protocol was dismissed without explanation.
Q: Who is at risk of suspension for England?
A: Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and others risk a one-match ban if they receive another yellow card before the quarter-finals. Cards reset after the quarter-finals.
Q: Will Messi play in the next World Cup?
A: This could be Messi’s final World Cup. At 39, he has not confirmed whether he will continue to the 2030 tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues across North America. Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for the latest updates, scores, and analysis.