A new refereeing protocol has intensified debate over fairness at the FIFA World Cup, with a former FIFA referee saying Monday that another controversial decision involving Argentina has further fueled criticism from fans.
The defending champions' run to Wednesday's semifinal against England has been overshadowed by repeated complaints from opponents over officiating decisions, while speculation on social media has claimed the tournament has favored Lionel Messi's side.
The controversy peaked during Argentina's quarterfinal victory over Switzerland on Saturday, when Swiss forward Breel Embolo was shown a second yellow card for simulation under the new VAR protocol, a decision Switzerland coach Murat Yakin described as "unacceptable."
Switzerland's Breel Embolo (L) reacts after referee Joao Pinheiro (R) shows him a red card following a VAR intervention during the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal between Argentina and Switzerland at Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, U.S., July 11, 2026. (EPA Photo)
Asked about the latest criticism Monday, FIFA referred Reuters to a July 8 interview with refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina, who dismissed allegations of bias following Argentina's round-of-16 victory over Egypt.