Referee Elfath’s post-match gesture captures global attention
. . . after Argentina–England semifinal; prostates on the pitch in gratitude to God
American referee of Moroccan origin Ismail Elfath captured widespread attention following the final whistle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between Argentina and England, after making a heartfelt gesture of gratitude on the pitch.
Moments after Argentina secured a 2-1 victory to book its place in the World Cup final against Spain, Elfath was seen prostrating in gratitude to God before getting up to greet his assistant referees and shake hands with players from both teams, in a scene that quickly drew widespread reaction.
The Argentina-England encounter marked Elfath’s fourth assignment at the 2026 World Cup. Earlier in the tournament, he officiated the group-stage matches between the Netherlands and Japan, and Spain and Uruguay, before taking charge of the Brazil-Norway Round of 16 clash.
The post-match moment became one of the tournament’s most talked-about scenes, highlighting the emotional significance of the occasion for the experienced referee.
