Lisandro Martínez, the Argentine national team player, commented on the performance of the referees in Argentina's matches in the 2026 World Cup tournament, after the last match against the Pharaohs in the round of 16.
Martínez was asked whether the referees favor Argentina in the World Cup, where he said: "I think they are doing an excellent job".
He added: "This is something directed at the media, who sometimes stir up controversy; we care about giving our best on the field and nothing more than that".
Regarding the match against Switzerland, he said: "As always, what distinguishes this team is respect for the opponent; if Switzerland reached this stage, it is because they deserve it with merit".
He concluded: "We watched their match against Colombia, and they always try to play; they have great physical strength, as well as in set pieces. I think it will be a great match because both teams will try to play".
The Argentine national team had secured qualification to the quarterfinals after turning around a two-goal deficit 11 minutes from the end of the match to a three-goal victory over the Egyptian national team.
There were several complaints from the Egyptian team's technical staff and players regarding the necessity of using video technology, especially after it was used by the referee and the cancellation of Mustafa Zico's goal in the 62nd minute of the match.
The Argentine national team faced strong reactions on social media after that match, where many claimed that the referees were favoring the defending champions to qualify again to the final stages of the 2026 World Cup tournament.
