Former Roma and Juventus players slam England vs Argentina referee: ‘A disgrace’

England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina sparked fury in Italy’s television studios, with Serie A legends Marco Tardelli and Paulo Roberto Falcao tearing into the officiating during an ill-tempered night in Atlanta.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the Rai 1 studio was left aghast by an ill-tempered first half in Atlanta, with Juventus great Tardelli setting the tone.

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“A match that starts and already Paredes commits a nasty foul for no reason. A disgrace. Then the English too, eh… No football. Only fouls!” the 1982 World Cup winner said.

His anger extended to the appointment of the American official: “The referee did nothing. It’s incredible, I’d like to know who put him there. What does an American referee have to do with this match? He’s not up to it.”

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JULY 15: (EDITOR’S NOTE: Image was captured using a remote camera from behind the goal.) Lautaro Martinez #22 of Argentina scores his team’s second goal past Jordan Pickford #1 of England during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between England and Argentina at Atlanta Stadium on July 15, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

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Falcao stunned as ‘punch’ goes unpunished as England lose to Argentina

Roma icon Paulo Roberto Falcao was equally incensed, singling out one incident that went entirely unsanctioned.

“At one point someone throws a punch and the referee doesn’t even give a red. Astonishing!” the Brazilian said. “This is an assault, not a normal foul. That punch deserved a red, a full-blooded punch. I’ve never seen anything like it in football. If it carries on like this it certainly won’t finish eleven against eleven.”

Tardelli’s parting shot summed up the studio’s verdict: “The referee is incapable of managing this match, there are too many fouls, and he even booked an England player before an Argentinian. It’s a disgrace.”

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