vs. is the second semifinal match of the 2026 World Cup, being performed on Wednesday, July 15 at Atlanta Stadium. The winner will play within the 2026 World Cup Last on Sunday, July 19.
This heavyweight semifinal matchup is taken into account very even primarily based on each groups’ performances within the 2026 match up to now. Forward of this match, Argentina is seen because the controversial staff, with many followers on-line contemplating them to be favored by earlier officiating crews.
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The referee in control of the England vs. Argentina match is an American-Moroccan official, Ismail Elfath, who’s a FIFA and CONCACAF referee.
Referee Ismail Elfath gestures through the FIFA World Cup 2026 Spherical of 16 match between and at New York New Jersey Stadium.Picture by Steph Chambers – FIFA/FIFA by way of Getty Photographs
Elfath has been a FIFA referee since 2016 and an MLS referee since 2012. He’s officiating his second World Cup after refereeing three video games within the 2022 match. He was the fourth official within the 2022 World Cup Last between Argentina and in .
Forward of the match right this moment, many followers and the have highlighted Elfath as ‘s “fortunate allure.”
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Why Is Ismail Elfath Thought of Lionel Messi’s ‘Fortunate Allure’?
Since Lionel Messi joined within the MLS, Ismail Elfath has officiated 4 Inter Miami video games, and the staff has a 100% win file (4 wins in 4 video games) when he officiates.
There’s a worry among the many English media of World Cup favoritism in direction of Argentina when FIFA introduced that Elfath could be in control of officiating the England vs. Argentina semifinal match primarily based on this file.
Ismail Elfath officiated the 2023 Leagues Cup Last, when Inter Miami defeated on penalties.
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The final time Elfath officiated a match when Messi performed was the vs. Inter Miami MLS match on March 17, 2026, the place Inter Miami received 4-2 away from house.
Full Referee Crew for England vs. Argentina
Most important Referee: Ismail Elfath (USA)
Assistant Referee 1: Corey Parker (USA)
Assistant Referee 2: Kyle Atkins (USA)
4th Official: Maurizio Mariani ()
Reserve Assistant Referee: Daniele Bindoni (Italy)
This story was initially printed by on Jul 15, 2026, the place it first appeared within the part. Add Athlon Sports activities as a