FIFA Names Ismail Elfath to Officiate England vs Argentina World Cup Semi-Final

FIFA has appointed American referee Ismail Elfath to take charge of Wednesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina.

The world football governing body confirmed the appointment on Tuesday, announcing that Elfath will officiate the highly anticipated clash at Atlanta Stadium on July 15, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 p.m. EDT.

Elfath will be assisted by fellow Americans Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins, while Italy’s Maurizio Mariani has been named fourth official. Daniele Bindoni, also of Italy, will serve as the reserve assistant referee.

The appointment places one of FIFA’s most experienced officials in charge of one of the tournament’s biggest fixtures.

Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, are seeking a place in a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final after navigating a difficult knockout stage. The South Americans defeated Cape Verde 3-2 in the Round of 32, edged Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16, and beat Switzerland 3-1 in the quarter-finals.

England, meanwhile, are chasing their first World Cup final appearance since their historic triumph in 1966. The Three Lions reached the last four after victories over DR Congo (2-1), Mexico (3-2) and Norway (2-1).

Elfath, a FIFA Elite referee and Major League Soccer official, previously officiated matches at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and has overseen several major international competitions.

The winner of Wednesday’s encounter will secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, while the defeated team will contest the tournament’s third-place playoff.