FIFA Referees Chief Collina Addresses VAR Controversies in Argentina-Egypt Match

FIFA’s head of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, has firmly responded to accusations of bias and external influence following controversial VAR decisions in the recent World Cup match between Argentina and Egypt. The Egyptian team’s coach and several players had alleged that the officiating was influenced by Argentina, with claims of match-fixing and unfair treatment.

Collina, speaking to FIFA’s official channels, directly addressed these claims, stating that unsubstantiated accusations have no place in the sport and that the integrity of World Cup referees is beyond question. He emphasized that such claims can lead to threats against officials and their families, which he deemed unacceptable.

Collina also refuted the notion that the refereeing could be influenced by any external party, including the FIFA president, assuring that FIFA’s leadership fully supports independent officiating. He highlighted that referees, like players and coaches, strive to perform at their best and make honest decisions on the field.

VAR Interventions Explained

Collina used the Argentina vs. Egypt match as a specific example to clarify the application of VAR technology, particularly concerning the disallowed Egyptian goal that would have given them a 2-0 lead. He explained the VAR protocol for reviewing offensive phases of play leading to a goal.

“After every goal, the VAR reviews the offensive phase of possession,” Collina stated. “If a foul is detected during the play and is deemed to have influenced the goal, the VAR will recommend an on-field review. There is no defined limit regarding the distance to the goal or the time elapsed between the incident and the goal.”

He then detailed the specific incident: “An example of this was seen in the match between Argentina and Egypt, where Marwan Attia clearly stepped on Lisandro Martínez’s foot.” The VAR’s recommendation for an on-field review led to the goal being disallowed based on the foul.

Addressing Another Disputed Call

The Egyptian team’s strong reactions were not limited to the disallowed goal. They also vehemently protested a challenge by Julián Álvarez on Mohamed Salah in the build-up to Argentina’s third goal. Collina addressed this situation by explaining the distinction between a foul and a legal challenge.

“If no foul is identified in the play preceding a goal, the VAR will inform the referee,” Collina explained. “Stepping on an opponent’s foot is a foul, whereas a defender who touches the ball first and then makes normal contact with the opponent does not commit a foul. In the final moments of the same match, the referee and VAR considered it to be normal contact between Salah and Julián Álvarez.” This assessment by the on-field referee and VAR meant the goal stood.

Collina’s interventions in clarifying specific, high-profile incidents aim to provide transparency and reinforce the correct application of the Laws of the Game, particularly as VAR technology becomes more integrated into major competitions. His remarks serve as a defense of the officiating team amidst accusations that could undermine trust in the sport’s governance.

Key facts
| Aspect | Detail |
| :———————- | :———————————————————————– |
| Official | Pierluigi Collina, FIFA Head of Referees |
| Incident | VAR decisions in Argentina vs. Egypt match |
| Accusations | External influence, bias, match-fixing by Egyptian team |
| Collina’s Response | Refuted accusations, defended referee integrity and VAR protocols |
| Specific Plays Clarified | Disallowed Egyptian goal (foul on L. Martínez), Julian Alvarez challenge |

Collina’s clear explanations are crucial for maintaining confidence in the refereeing standards at the highest level of international football. By addressing the specific controversial moments and reiterating the principles of VAR, FIFA aims to counter claims of unfair play and uphold the integrity of the game for its global audience.

Source: https://www.ole.com.ar/mundial/mundial-2026/collina-arbitro-fifa-argentina-egipto_0_TziAm5HP4l.html

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