FIFA Appoints Ismail Elfath for England vs Argentina Semi-Final

FIFA has appointed Ismail Elfath, an American referee, to officiate the highly anticipated semi-final match between England and Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match is scheduled for July 15 at Atlanta Stadium, with a kick-off time set for 3:00 PM EDT.

Elfath will be assisted by fellow Americans Corey Parker and Kyle Atkin, while Italian referee Maurizio Mariani has been named as the fourth official. Additionally, Italian Daniel Bindoni will serve as a reserve assistant referee.

This match is significant as it features Lionel Messi-led Argentina, who are seeking to defend their World Cup title won in Qatar 2022, against England, aiming to reach their first final since 1966. Argentina secured their semi-final spot by overcoming three knockout stage opponents, while England navigated a challenging route to the last four.

The match is expected to reignite the historic rivalry between the two football powerhouses.