LOS ANGELES, United States — FIFA referees chief Pierluigi Collina has hit out at “unfounded allegations” against World Cup match officials in the wake of Argentina’s controversial last-16 victory over Egypt.

In comments posted on FIFA’s official website, Collina defended officials, who oversaw Argentina’s 3-2 win in Atlanta and were accused of malpractice by Egypt coach Hossam Hassan.

Hassan speculated that the officiating team for the game, headed by French referee Francois Letexier may have been subjected to “external pressure” to favour Argentina.