England’s semi‑final defeat to Argentina left the squad visibly frustrated, and midfielder Jude Bellingham was seen confronting the match official immediately after the final whistle.
The game began with a second‑half goal from Anthony Gordon, but a collapse saw Enzo Fernandez level before Lautaro Martinez secured a 2‑1 win in injury time.
Officials recorded 19 fouls by half‑time, 12 of them by Argentina, yet only one yellow card was issued in the first half, prompting criticism from England.
A collision between Fernandez and Elliot Anderson went unpunished, and a suspected foul by Lionel Messi on Djed Spence before the decisive cross added to the controversy.
In footage from the referee’s camera, Bellingham approached the official and voiced his frustration, commenting on the unexpected decisions made during the match.
The referee had previously overseen several high‑profile games, including a World Cup final and a major league cup final, and has officiated matches featuring the Argentine star on multiple occasions.
After the final, Spain’s head coach Luis de la Fuente criticised Argentina’s post‑match conduct, stressing his team’s adherence to sportsmanship and decorum.
The episode underscores the ongoing debate over officiating and player behavior in critical World Cup encounters.
