The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) says it has asked FIFA to kick the officials in charge of their World Cup last-16 defeat by Argentina out of the tournament. The EFA said it lodged a complaint with football's world governing body and wants an investigation into "double standards" of officiating in the game in Atlanta. With Egypt leading 1-0 in the second half, VAR ruled out a goal by Mostafa Zico after Egypt midfielder Marwan Attia was penalised for stepping on Lisandro Martinez's foot at the start of the move. Egypt also thought Mohamed Salah was fouled in the Argentina penalty area seconds before the reigning champions broke for a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory. An EFA statement read: "Hany Abou Rida, president of the Egyptian football federation, filed a complaint with Fifa, demanding an investigation into the French referee Francois Letexier after the serious refereeing mistakes committed by the team of referees and double standards, which caused the Egypt team to lose the match and leave the World Cup." The EFA called for an investigation of the team of referees and video technology referees after what it said were "blatant errors" and alleged "the crime of discrimination against the Egyptian national team." After the game, manager Hossam Hassan said Egypt had been "treated unfairly" and "suffered injustice," suggesting "perhaps they wanted to keep the world champion in the competition." Zico said "the referee was really unfair" and claimed "it is clear that this tournament has been fixed." Argentina captain Lionel Messi set up their first goal and scored an equaliser before the stoppage-time winner. BBC Sport has contacted FIFA for comment.
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