World Cup 2026: Hacking worry for Argentina FA over Egypt game emails

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is investigating a potential cyber attack after unauthorized emails criticizing refereeing decisions were sent from their official account. The incident follows a controversial World Cup match against Egypt, where the Egyptian FA had already formally complained about alleged bias.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the growing intersection of international sports, digital security, and geopolitical tensions in high-stakes global events.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Argentina came from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 in their World Cup last-16 tie
Argentina's football association has indicated it may have been the target of a cyber attack after emails from its official accounts reportedly criticised refereeing in the national team's 3-2 win against Egypt at the World Cup.
The reigning world champions looked set for a shock last-16 exit when they trailed Egypt 2-0 but produced a remarkable late comeback to reach the quarter-finals.
Following the defeat, the Egyptian Football Association asked Fifa to banish from the tournament the French referee Francois Letexier and the team of officials who were in charge, alleging bias in favour of Argentina.
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