‘Shocking’ – Jude Bellingham’s dig at referee in behind-the-scenes video of Argentina clash

Jul 24, 2026 - 19:45
‘Shocking’ – Jude Bellingham’s dig at referee in behind-the-scenes video of Argentina clash

Jude Bellingham made his displeasure with referee Ismail Elfath clear after England were beaten by Argentina at the World Cup.

The Three Lions went ahead in their semi-final clash but ultimately lost 2-1 as the holders reached the final against Spain, who won.

Jude Bellingham for England at the World Cup.
Footage of Bellingham’s post-match remark to the referee has been released
Getty

Argentina committed 15 fouls during the match and received three yellow cards, whilst England had one booking from 11 fouls.

It was a feisty affair overseen by MLS referee Elfath, who was making his second appearance at a World Cup.

However, Bellingham took issue with his performance in the middle of the pitch and made it clear after the full-time whistle.

In a video posted by TristanTegtmeyer on TikTok, the ref-cam footage from the match shows Elfath’s perspective.

Bellingham walks over to shake hands with the officials and, when he looks to the referee, says: “Some shocking ones, but all the best.”

The decisions Bellingham refers to are unknown, but it’s evident that Elfath was sub-par in his eyes.

Spilling over at full-time

There was little to no cordiality between England and Argentina at full-time in Atlanta.

Morgan Rogers clashed with opposition players, whilst Bellingham slapped Valentin Barco on the back of his head.

Argentina players then unveiled a banner that read ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’, which means ‘The Falkland Islands are Argentina’.

The Falkland Islands are a British Overseas Territory, but Argentina have disputed its sovereignty.

@tristantegtmeyer

Messi’s last win with Argentina. Very sad to see it end, but happy that Spain won the World Cup! #worldcup#refcam#messi#futbol#fussball ♬ original sound – TristanTegtmeyer

Jude Bellingham speaks to the referee after England v Argentina at the World Cup.
Bellingham claimed some of the referee’s decisions were shocking
@tristantegtmeyer TikTok

Rules set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) make it clear that equipment must not have political statements or images.

Peter Kyle, the former Secretary of State for Business and Trade, was on hand to call for an investigation from FIFA.

However, there has been no word from the governing body as of yet, and the White House even defended the players’ right to the banner.

Argentina were outplayed in their 1-0 defeat in the final against Spain and sparked a post-match brawl, which saw Leandro Paredes throw punches.

The 2022 champions, who also stood with their backs to Spain when they lifted the trophy, were thoroughly criticised for their behaviour.

Argentina president Javier Milei has since claimed people are ‘jealous’ of his country despite the players’ lack of graciousness in defeat.

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