England vs. Argentina is the second semifinal match of the 2026 World Cup, being played on Wednesday, July 15 at Atlanta Stadium. The winner will play Spain in the 2026 World Cup Final on Sunday, July 19.
This heavyweight semifinal matchup is considered very even based on both teams' performances in the 2026 tournament so far. Ahead of this match, Argentina is seen as the controversial team, with many fans online considering them to be favored by previous officiating crews.
The referee in charge of the England vs. Argentina match is an American-Moroccan official, Ismail Elfath, who is a FIFA and CONCACAF referee.
Photo by Steph Chambers - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Elfath has been a FIFA referee since 2016 and an MLS referee since 2012. He is officiating his second World Cup after refereeing three games in the 2022 tournament. He was the fourth official in the 2022 World Cup Final between Argentina and France in Qatar.
Ahead of the match today, many fans and the English media have highlighted Elfath as Lionel Messi's "lucky charm."
- RELATED: Why Referee Ismail Elfath's History With Lionel Messi Is Drawing Attention
Why Is Ismail Elfath Considered Lionel Messi's 'Lucky Charm'?
Since Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in the MLS, Ismail Elfath has officiated four Inter Miami games, and the team has a 100% win record (4 wins in 4 games) when he officiates.
There is a fear among the English media of World Cup favoritism towards Argentina when FIFA announced that Elfath would be in charge of officiating the England vs. Argentina semifinal match based on this record.
Ismail Elfath officiated the 2023 Leagues Cup Final, when Inter Miami defeated Nashville SC on penalties.
The last time Elfath officiated a match when Messi played was the Orlando City vs. Inter Miami MLS match on March 17, 2026, where Inter Miami won 4-2 away from home.
Full Referee Team for England vs. Argentina
- Main Referee: Ismail Elfath (USA)
- Assistant Referee 1: Corey Parker (USA)
- Assistant Referee 2: Kyle Atkins (USA)
- 4th Official: Maurizio Mariani (Italy)
- Reserve Assistant Referee: Daniele Bindoni (Italy)
