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Argentina benefits from VAR decisions in World Cup, facing scrutiny

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 11:58 PM

Last updated Jul 13, 2026

Argentina benefits from VAR decisions in World Cup, facing scrutiny

Summary

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals approach, Argentina's Lionel Messi has scored eight goals and provided two assists, showcasing his skills. However, discussions around the team's performance focus on what some perceive as preferential treatment through VAR reviews. Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan criticized the referee decisions during their round of 16 match against Argentina, claiming unfair rulings against his team. Analysis indicates that Argentina had no VAR reviews for fouls against them while receiving the most favorable calls. Despite the findings, there is no consensus on whether these outcomes indicate bias, as some experts stress the complexities of foul assessments within VAR.

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By the Numbers

•Messi is having an impressive World Cup with eight goals and two assists.
•Hossam Hassan condemned VAR decisions as unfair to Egypt in their loss.
•Argentina had no VAR-reviewed fouls against them during the tournament.
•The team's favorable VAR outcomes have sparked the nickname 'VARgentina'.
•Experts indicate decisions may stem from missed calls rather than bias.

Latest Updates

11:58 PMYahoo Sports — VAR intervention rate shows just how much ‘VARgentina’ has benefitted during World Cup

What they're saying

"
Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi has turned back the clock and is arguably turning in the most impressive World Cup performance in his career during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Entering Argentina’s semifinal matchup against England, Messi has scored eight goals and provided two assists. However, as great as Messi has been, a…
— Yahoo Sports

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