In the run-up to the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, British tabloids have been making allegations that Lionel Messi's national team is being favoured by referees and FIFA on the way to the final. The term "Vargjentina" has also gained momentum in Britain, a play on words linking Argentina with VAR, to suggest that technological decisions have been in favour of the world champions.
At the center of the controversy is the American referee of Moroccan origin Ismail Elfath, who will officiate the challenge. The tabloids describe him as "Messi's favorite referee", recalling that he was the fourth official in the 2022 World Cup final and that Messi has won all four matches he has refereed since his transfer to Inter Miami, scoring four goals.
Critics also point out that Argentina is the only team among the favourites not to have had a single VAR decision against them at this World Cup. Among the most controversial episodes is Messi's tackle on Mandi in the opening match against Algeria, for which many British analysts claim he deserved a red card.
Egypt and Switzerland have also expressed their displeasure after their elimination by Argentina. Egypt coach Hossam Hassan spoke of "injustice" and released a video of the disputed episodes of the match. On the other hand, Swiss defender Manuel Akanji said he had never seen such a one-sided refereeing, while coach Murat Yakin called it "incomprehensible."
In this climate of tension, the pressure on Elfath is extraordinary, while the England-Argentina challenge is expected to take place under maximum attention, with every refereeing decision expected to be analyzed in detail.
