Fifa has announced American referee Ismail Elfath will take charge of England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina, a decision that carries a potentially ominous history for the Three Lions. The 44-year-old official has overseen every match involving Lionel Messi that he has refereed, and the Argentine superstar has never lost under his watch.
Elfath's Tournament Experience
Elfath has officiated group games between Japan and the Netherlands, and Uruguay versus Spain in the current tournament, as well as Norway's last-16 victory over five-time winners Brazil. He also served as fourth official during the 2022 World Cup final, where France and Argentina played one of the most memorable finals in history, and was on the touchlines for Lionel Messi's crowning moment.
Fellow Americans Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins will be assistant referees, while Italian Maurizio Mariani is the fourth official for the semi-final clash.
Messi's Unbeaten Record Under Elfath
The Moroccan-born American has officiated six matches involving Lionel Messi since 2023, with Messi's teams winning all of them. These include Inter Miami's 4-0 rout of Charlotte FC, a Leagues Cup final victory days later, a 3-1 win over Nashville, a 4-1 drubbing of New England Revolution, and a 4-2 win over Orlando City. This perfect record under Elfath adds to the sense of foreboding for England fans.
England's Team News
England will make a late decision on whether Declan Rice is fit to start the semi-final. The midfielder's availability could be crucial for Gareth Southgate's side as they seek to overcome the challenge posed by Argentina.
France vs Spain Semi-Final Preview
Meanwhile, France boss Didier Deschamps is predicting a "spectacular" semi-final when his side takes on Spain in Dallas on Tuesday. "The past is in the past," said Deschamps, adding: "They [Spain] did win in the past but I am looking forward to tomorrow. We are now at another level. We want to be in the final." France will become only the third country to reach three straight World Cup finals if they win in Texas. "They have only conceded only one goal in six games," added Deschamps. "We know this could be a most spectacular game. [Spain boss] Luis [de la Fuente] and myself we know how to defend and with the quality of two teams offensively, we can think it's going to be a spectacular game."
