FIFA Picks American Referee for England vs Argentina Semi-Final
FIFA has appointed American official Ismail Elfath to referee the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, with the two football heavyweights set to battle for a place in the final.
The governing body confirmed the appointment on Tuesday, announcing that Elfath will oversee the encounter at Atlanta Stadium on July 15, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 p.m. EDT.
Elfath will be supported by assistant referees Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins, both from the United States. Italy’s Maurizio Mariani has been assigned as the fourth official, while Daniele Bindoni will serve as reserve assistant referee.
A veteran FIFA referee, Elfath has earned a reputation for managing some of the sport’s biggest occasions.
He featured prominently at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and has officiated several high-profile international and club competitions.
Wednesday’s contest brings together two of football’s most successful nations in a rivalry that has produced some of the game’s most unforgettable moments.
Argentina, the reigning world champions led by Lionel Messi, are hoping to book another appearance in the World Cup final, while England are chasing a return to the championship match for the first time in six decades.
Argentina reached the semi-finals after victories over Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland, while England advanced by defeating DR Congo, Mexico, and Norway during the knockout rounds.
The match also carries historical significance, recalling the dramatic 1986 World Cup quarter-final in which Diego Maradona’s controversial “Hand of God” goal and stunning solo effort inspired Argentina to a 2-1 win over England.
The victorious team will progress to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, while the losing side will head into the tournament’s third-place playoff.
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