World Cup: FIFA appoints US referee to officiate England, Argentina semi-final

American referee Ismail Elfath will take charge of the high-stakes 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, FIFA announced Tuesday. The match, scheduled for July 15 at Atlanta Stadium, pits two of international football's traditional powerhouses against each other in a fixture rich with history.

Elfath, a respected official in Major League Soccer and on FIFA's elite list, will be assisted by fellow Americans Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins. Italian officials Maurizio Mariani and Daniele Bindoni will serve as fourth official and reserve assistant referee, respectively. This appointment places Elfath at the center of one of the tournament's most anticipated games, as Argentina aims to defend their 2022 title and England seeks its first final appearance since 1966.

The semi-final renews one of football's most storied rivalries, famously marked by the 1986 quarter-final where Diego Maradona scored the 'Hand of God' goal and the 'Goal of the Century' in Argentina's 2-1 victory. Both teams have endured tough paths to reach this stage. Argentina overcame Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland in the knockout rounds, while England defeated DR Congo, Mexico, and Norway. The winner will advance to the World Cup final, with the loser playing in the third-place playoff.

“

Elfath will take charge of Match 102, scheduled for July 15 at Atlanta Stadium, with kick-off set for 3:00 p.m. EDT.