FIFA Appoints Ismail Elfath as Referee for England vs Argentina Semi-Final
American referee Ismail Elfath has been named to officiate the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, as the historic football rivals meet 40 years after their last major clash.
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FIFA has appointed American referee Ismail Elfath to officiate the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, reigniting one of football's most storied rivalries on the global stage.
The match marks a symbolic moment as it comes 40 years after Diego Maradona’s infamous 'Hand of God' goal, a moment that deepened the animosity between the two nations, according to Business Day.
Elfath’s selection makes him the first American to referee a World Cup semi-final in recent history. His appointment was confirmed by FIFA and reported by BBC Sport, which cited the organization’s official announcement.
"Fifa announce American referee Ismail Elfath will take charge of England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina," BBC Sport reported on July 14, 2026.
The game will be played under intense scrutiny, given the historical weight and past controversies surrounding encounters between the two teams. England and Argentina last met in a World Cup knockout stage in 1986, a match defined by Maradona’s controversial handball and subsequent 'Goal of the Century' in the same game.
With tensions historically high, Elfath’s performance will be closely watched by fans and officials alike. He has previously overseen high-profile matches in Major League Soccer and continental competitions, earning a reputation for composure and consistency.