In a tense World Cup knockout, Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan was furious after Argentina staged a 3-2 comeback Tuesday in Atlanta. Egypt, up 2-0, saw their dreams dashed, with Hassan slamming what he called biased officiating that cost them quarterfinal spot .
Egypt struck early,Mostafa Zico scoring within 15 minutes . A VAR review erased a second goal,citing a foul on Lisandro Martinez. Zico doubled lead in the second half,but Argentina hit back,Cristian Romero and Lionel Messi turning the tide .
Hassan didn't hold back post-match. “We have been cheated unfairly today; we have suffered injustice,” he said,blasting the disallowed goal and ignored penalty appeal. “A penalty was ruled out,was not even checked by VAR,” he fumed, incredulous at the calls.
Egypt's defense held strong, thanks to goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, who saved Messi penalty . Hassan highlighted the difference between his local league players and Europe's stars,yet praised their fighting spirit.
Post-match, Hassan vowed to boycott the rest of the World Cup. “This is my own way of speaking up,” he declared, also slamming the noon kickoff just four days after their last game. “Whoever schedules those matches has never played football,” he said.
Hassan hinted at outside influence, suggesting a push to keep Messi and Argentina in the tournament. “Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champions in the competition,” he speculated,hinting at forces beyond the pitch.
Despite the blow, Hassan praised his players' effort against more experienced teams. “I’m very, very satisfied with effort they put in,” he emphasized, acknowledging the uphill battle.
The match saw Egypt shift to attacking stance, a departure from their usual defense. But the late collapse left them questioning officiating integrity and their tournament exit circumstances.
With controversy hanging over the match,Egypt faces a wait for their next world stage shot,while Argentina advances, lifted by their dramatic win.
