Collina Defends Referees’ Independence After Argentina–Egypt Controversy

FIFA’s chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Collina rejected claims that referees or VAR decisions in the Argentina–Egypt World Cup Round of 16 were influenced by outside pressures or Messi’s presence, stressing the integrity and independence of match officials. He explained VAR interventions, including disallowing Egypt’s second goal due to a foul in the build‑up (Marwan Attia on Lisandro Martínez) and clarified the APP (attacking possession phase) process. Despite Egyptian accusations of bias and late-penalty appeals, Collina insisted decisions are made independently, noting the late 92nd‑minute winner for Argentina by Enzo Fernández and defending the officiating decisions throughout the match.