During the Egypt-Argentina World Cup controversy, FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina defended the officials and rejected claims that outside influence shaped their decisions. The dispute involves the Egyptian Football Association, referees, and teams whose tournament outcomes can turn on VAR and on-field calls.

Collina's position prioritizes trust in officials' independence, while the controversy puts greater scrutiny of disputed decisions on the other side. His statement, "We are not influenced by anyone," makes the response itself the issue for fans to weigh.