Newly released FIFA footage from the referee's body camera has revealed Jude Bellingham's pointed comment to official Ismail Elfath immediately after England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. The match, which ended 2-1 to Argentina, saw England take the lead through Anthony Gordon in the second half before Enzo Fernandez equalised and Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in injury time.
Referee Cam Captures Bellingham's Frustration
As Bellingham approached Elfath after the final whistle, the England midfielder extended his hand and said: 'Some shocking ones but all the best.' The comment was captured by Elfath's ref cam, a device used by all FIFA match officials during the World Cup. The footage, shared on social media by user @tristantegtmeyer, has since gone viral.
Controversial Decisions and Argentina's Physical Play
The ill-tempered game saw 19 fouls committed by half-time, 12 of which came from Argentina, yet only Lisandro Martinez received a yellow card in the opening 45 minutes. England were particularly unhappy that Fernandez's collision with Elliot Anderson, where the Chelsea midfielder thrust his elbow into Anderson's neck, went unpunished. Additionally, England felt aggrieved that Lionel Messi appeared to foul Djed Spence just before his cross set up Martinez's winner.
Elfath's History with Messi
Before the match, Elfath had been described as Messi's 'good luck charm,' as Argentina's captain had won all five matches where the American official was part of the officiating team. Elfath was the fourth official for the 2022 World Cup final, where Argentina beat France on penalties. He also officiated the 2023 Leagues Cup final, where Messi's Inter Miami won, and has taken charge of three MLS wins for Messi.
Spain Coach Condemns Argentina's Conduct
Meanwhile, Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente has criticised Argentina's behaviour after the full-time whistle in the World Cup final last Sunday. Spain's players were attacked by Argentina's players and coaches, who could face disciplinary action from FIFA. 'At the time I didn't realise what was happening because I was celebrating with other people, hugging teammates,' De la Fuente told RTVE. 'In any case, I find it intolerable and unacceptable from players of that calibre, whom I had been praising in the days leading up to the match and who have a fantastic coach. I think it's worth highlighting the behaviour of our players in the face of those provocations, who at all times maintained the decorum of good sportsmen and footballers.'
