FIFA’s referees’ chief Pierluigi Collina has defended officials at the World Cup after Egypt claimed “serious” mistakes had been made by the referee in their last-16 loss to Argentina.
The Egyptian Football Association called for French referee Francois Letexier and his team to be sent home after being left angered by key decisions in Tuesday’s match, when they conceded three late goals to lose 3-2 to the defending champions.
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan appeared to suggest there was favouritism shown towards Argentina by FIFA, saying: “Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champion in the competition.”
It came soon after the controversy that surrounded FIFA’s decision to suspend a one-game ban for United States striker Folarin Balogun following an intervention from US president Donald Trump, who complained to FIFA president Gianni Infantino about Balogun’s red card in their win over Bosnia-Herzegovina.
In comments published on FIFA’s website, chief refereeing officer Collina insisted his officials could not be influenced by anyone.
“Of course, constructive discussion about decisions will always be part of football, but unfounded allegations have no place in our sport,” he 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.”
