A video capturing an Argentina fan live-streaming their national team's dramatic World Cup comeback victory over Egypt to the entire airplane cabin has gone viral.
The footage shows the fan standing in the aisle, holding a laptop aloft to allow other passengers to watch the match's unfolding events. Those seated behind were described as engrossed, with audible gasps and jeers heard from the mid-air audience. Social media users have praised the fan for sharing the game with fellow travelers.
The match itself has become a focal point of controversy. Egypt's manager, Hossam Hassan, has accused world football's governing body, FIFA, of rigging the tournament in favor of Lionel Messi and Argentina.
Argentina secured a 3-2 victory after being down 2-0 with just 12 minutes remaining. Late goals from Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi, and Enzo Fernandez completed the comeback. The dramatic conclusion led to heated exchanges on the touchline, with Egypt's goalkeeper coach receiving a red card and manager Hassan being restrained.
Egypt's coaching staff expressed anger over several refereeing decisions, particularly an uncalled penalty for Mohamed Salah and a disallowed goal for Egypt, which they felt favored Argentina. Hassan stated after the match that while his team played better, "football is unfair." He suggested that external factors, possibly for "marketing reasons" to keep Messi in the competition, influenced the outcome.
Argentina has advanced to the quarterfinals of the tournament, aiming to defend their title. The controversy surrounding the match highlights the intense emotions and scrutiny surrounding high-stakes international football competitions.