FIFA World Cup 2026: "They are doing excellent job", Argentina's Lisandro Martinez brushes aside refereeing debate
Missouri, July 11
Argentina defender Lisandro Martinez dismissed concerns over refereeing at the FIFA World Cup 2026, praising match officials and insisting that his team's focus remains solely on its performances on the pitch, according to Reuters.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Argentina's quarterfinal clash against the Switzerland, Martinez rejected suggestions of controversy surrounding officiating during the tournament.
"No, absolutely nothing," Martinez said when asked whether he had anything to say about the refereeing in the tournament, as quoted by Reuters.
The defending champions advanced to the quarterfinals after staging a remarkable comeback from two goals down in the final 11 minutes to secure a 3-2 victory over Egypt.
The match drew also saw a controversy from the Egyptian Football Association, which questioned several officiating decisions, including the Video Assistant Referee's (VAR) decision to disallow a goal by Mostafa Zico in the 62nd minute. Had it stood, the goal would have given Egypt a 3-0 lead before Argentina mounted their comeback.
However, the Argentine defender credited the referees for their performances and suggested that debates over officiating are often amplified by the media.
"I think they are doing an excellent job. That's something for you (the media), who sometimes generate the controversies. We concern ourselves with giving our best on the pitch and nothing more," he added, as quoted by Reuters.
When asked about upcoming clash againsy Switzerland, Martinez said his side will not underestimate, stressing that the South American champions respect every opponent and are expecting a difficult contest.
"As always, what identifies this team is respecting the opponent," Martinez said. "If Switzerland are at this stage, it's because they have a lot of merit. We watched their match against Colombia and they always try to play. They are very strong physically and also in set-pieces. I think it will be a great spectacle because both teams try to play."
— ANI
Reader Comments
I get Martinez's point about media creating controversies, but VAR decisions do matter. That disallowed goal for Egypt changed the entire match dynamics. Even if Argentina won fairly, fans deserve transparency. In India, we've seen how one controversial decision can affect the entire tournament.
Respect to Martinez for handling the question so diplomatically. That's the sign of a true professional - keep your head down, focus on the game. As Desi folks say, "Jo hota hai acchi ke liye hota hai." Egypt might feel hard done, but that's football. Onwards to the semis! ⚽
Good on Martinez for deflecting the controversy, but let's be real - Egypt's complaint about that VAR call has merit. A 3-0 lead would have surely sealed the game. Argentina got lucky, and they know it. South American sides always seem to get the benefit of the doubt in big tournaments.
Love how Martinez is keeping it classy. "If Switzerland are at this stage, it's because they have a lot of merit" - that's the kind of sportsmanship we need more of in Indian football too. Our players should learn from this humility. Respect the opponent, play your best. 🙏
I'm sorry, but brushing off legitimate concerns about VAR is not "excellent" leadership. Egypt had every right to be upset - that goal was crucial. Martinez should acknowledge the system's flaws instead of blaming the media. This "we don't see anything wrong" attitude is why football governance remains problematic.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.