FIFA investigation to be launched after incident in Argentina’s victory over Egypt – Ex-PGMOL chief
A FIFA investigation is set to be launched after Egypt coach Hossam Hassan appeared to signal the No Racism Gesture in their 3-2 defeat to Argentina on Tuesday.
That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that he believes the referee and his colleagues may have missed it due to their focus on the game.
Images of Hassan crossing his arms in the 98th minute emerged after the full-time whistle in the World Cup round of 16 tie.
This is used to signal to the referee that someone has been targeted with abuse, and the official will then decide whether to stop the game or not.
However, nothing suggested that the referee, Francois Letexier, made such a decision late in the match.
As a result, the final seconds were seen out as Argentina claimed a late comeback victory against Egypt.
Keith Hackett: FIFA set to investigate No Racism Gesture
Upon reviewing the incident, the former referee exclusively told Football Insider: “I am sure that FIFA will investigate this matter.
“There was a lot going on at this time in the game, and the referee and his colleagues were focusing on the players on the field of play.
“I am sure that the Egyptian manager will be asked for his observations.”
It remains to be seen what steps will be taken if an investigation takes place over the coming weeks.
What did Hossam Hassan say after the match?
Hassan was certainly not pleased with the result in the result against Argentina.
Egypt had two penalty decisions turned down, one just before Enzo Fernandes’ winner, as well as a goal disallowed after VAR’s intervention.
Given that all these decisions went against the North African nation, Hassan is convinced that FIFA want Argentina and Lionel Messi to remain in the competition at all costs.
In his post-match interview, he said: “It’s all about money. They want Messi to stay in the tournament.
“In football, many things happen off the pitch because of interests. What happened was unfair. Egypt deserved to qualify. We were the better team.”
Nonetheless, no matter what Hasson thinks, Argentina will play in the World Cup quarter-finals, and Egypt will be going home.
The reigning champions are set to play Switzerland on Sunday at 2am UK time after the South American nation overcame Colombia on Tuesday, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.