The 2026 FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup has been marked by intense debate surrounding the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, with former South African internationals Benni McCarthy and Quinton Fortune emerging as prominent critics. Their frustration peaked following the Last 16 encounter between EgyptTeam·Egypt and Argentina on July 7, 2026, where a disallowed Egyptian goal sparked widespread controversy.
Benni McCarthy, currently serving as the KenyaTeam·Kenya manager, and Quinton Fortune were co-hosting on Sporty TV when they expressed their dismay. The core of their argument centered on a decision that saw EgyptTeam·Egypt's goal chalked off after a VAR review, a move they deemed inconsistent and influenced by player pressure.
"It's the first time I've seen a team score legitimate goals and then the opposition claim for ref to go to VAR to check a foul in the build up, which was never a foul. Nothing in it. But for the ref to go to VAR because Messi and the Argentina players asked for it," McCarthy stated, highlighting his concern over the perceived influence of players like Lionel Messi on refereeing decisions. He further questioned why a similar foul by Argentina in the build-up to their own goal was not subjected to the same scrutiny.
Quinton Fortune echoed McCarthy's sentiments, describing the situation as deeply damaging to the sport's integrity. "What are we doing now? Do we have to sit here and lie and make up stuff. It's clear and embarrassing. This was brutal. EgyptTeam·Egypt scored a perfectly good goal and then they go all the way back to find VAR angles from space to disallow the goal. Argentina? No angles, nothing. We all want Messi to play well and for the best team to win the tournament but not this way," Fortune added, emphasizing the perceived double standard in VAR application.
The disallowed goal proved to be a pivotal moment in the Last 16 clash, which Argentina ultimately won 3-2. The outcome fueled broader discussions about refereeing standards and VAR controversies that have permeated the 2026 FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup, with numerous disputed penalties, disallowed goals, and disciplinary decisions occurring throughout both the group stage and knockout rounds. EgyptTeam·Egypt's manager, Hossam Hassan, also publicly criticized the officiating after his team's defeat, suggesting the match was "rigged."
Earlier in the tournament, both McCarthy and Fortune had also reacted with visible disappointment to South AfricaTeam·South Africa's performance, particularly their 2-0 defeat against MexicoTeam·Mexico in the opening match, a game notable for three red cards and significant controversy. South AfricaTeam·South Africa's journey in the tournament concluded in the Round of 32 after a 1-0 loss to CanadaTeam·Canada, adding to the layers of discussion surrounding officiating and national team performances.
Mohammed Salah greeted by fans at El-Alamein Airport after Egypt's 2026 World Cup elimination. Anadolu Agency/IMAGO
Anadolu Agency/IMAGOThis article was generated with the help of AI. Learn more.
