World Cup 2026: Referee with VAR controversy to officiate England vs Argentina

FIFA has announced that American referee Ismail Elfath will officiate the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final clash between England and Argentina.

The match is expected to be one of the biggest games of the tournament, with both teams battling for a place in the World Cup final.

Elfath has already handled three matches at the competition and is regarded as one of FIFA’s experienced officials. His appointment shows the confidence FIFA has in his ability to manage high-pressure encounters involving some of the world’s best players.

The American referee was most recently in charge of Norway’s dramatic Round of 16 victory over Brazil. That game attracted attention because of two controversial penalty decisions involving the Brazilian team.

In the first incident, Elfath did not initially award a penalty when Norway defender Kristoffer Ajer appeared to foul Brazil’s Matheus Cunha inside the box. However, after a review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), a penalty was awarded to Brazil. Bruno Guimaraes stepped up to take the spot kick but failed to convert it.

Later in the match, Elfath awarded another penalty to Brazil after ruling that Norway defender Leo Ostigard had committed an offence against Casemiro. Neymar successfully converted the penalty, although it was only a late consolation as Norway went on to secure victory.

Before that match, Elfath officiated the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw against Japan during the group stage and Spain’s narrow 1-0 win over Uruguay.

His performance in the Spain versus Uruguay encounter also attracted attention after he showed a red card to Uruguay forward Agustin Canobbio for a dangerous challenge. The game was fiercely contested and required firm officiating throughout.

With tensions expected to be high between England and Argentina, FIFA will be hoping Elfath’s experience helps ensure a fair and well-controlled match. The semi-final carries huge significance for both nations, as the winner will move one step closer to lifting football’s most prestigious trophy.

Football fans around the world will be watching closely to see whether Elfath can successfully manage another major World Cup fixture as England and Argentina renew one of international football’s most famous rivalries.