Latest FIFA move confirms Lionel Messi World Cup advantage ahead of England semifinal

While Spain and France battle for a spot in the World Cup final on Jul. 14, 2026, England and Argentina are scheduled for the second semifinal on Jul. 15, 2026. However, just hours before the two giants clash, FIFA has confirmed the referee for the game.

FIFA appointed MLS referee Ismail Elfath as the official in charge of England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The 44-year-old veteran has already officiated a few group games between Japan and the Netherlands, as well as the Uruguay and Spain game. He was also a part of the Norway vs. Brazil R16 match.

A strict referee, he has already issued six yellow cards and shown Uruguay midfielder Agustin Canobbio a straight red card for a high challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi. However, can Argentina also expect some strict decisions from Elfath? Statistics suggest quite the opposite, and it is England who should be afraid of his decisions.

Elfath was the fourth official during Argentina’s 2022 World Cup final win over France and was also the referee when Messi won his first trophy for Inter Miami. He has been a lucky presence for Messi. Under Elfath’s officiating, Lionel Messi has always emerged victorious and has maintained a 100% win record.

FIFA’s rules say that referees cannot take charge of matches involving their own country. In addition to this, both English and Argentine officials also cannot officiate games involving either of the two nations because of their political tensions and the 1982 Falklands conflict.

England and Argentina will play each other in Atlanta on Jul. 15, 2026, where Italian Maurizio Mariani will serve as the fourth official, with Americans Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins working as assistant referees.

The post Latest FIFA move confirms Lionel Messi World Cup advantage ahead of England semifinal appeared first on ClutchPoints.