Lionel Messi is involved in a heated on-field confrontation with Egypt coach Hossam Hassan during the closing minutes of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt. Argentina wins 3-2 after a dramatic comeback, but the finish is overshadowed by clashes around the touchline. Reports say Hassan makes an anti-racism “crossed arms” gesture toward referee François Letexier, which triggers FIFA’s anti-racism protocol, and the referee subsequently issues Hassan a yellow card. A member of Egypt’s staff is also shown a red card after confronting or confronting the Argentine captain, according to accounts cited by one outlet.
Following the match, Hassan publicly criticizes match officiating, including disputed decisions involving VAR and late-match calls. Additional controversy continues as NDTV reports the Egypt coach also shouts at Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni after the incident. FIFA is expected to review the circumstances of the gesture and whether any further disciplinary action follows. The matter becomes part of wider debate around FIFA’s anti-racism procedures and how they are applied during match tension.
