The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has appointed American referee Ismail Elfath to officiate the second semi-final of the 2026 World Cup between Argentina and England, one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament.

Elfath's selection is a recognition of his outstanding performance during the tournament; he has officiated several major matches with high efficiency, which has strengthened FIFA's confidence in his ability to handle such a high-stakes encounter.

Elfath, born in Casablanca, Morocco, before acquiring American citizenship and becoming an international referee, is among the most prominent referees participating in the World Cup, having continued to deliver impressive performances that have earned him respect from global football circles.

However, this assignment effectively ends Elfath's chances of officiating the final match, as the international federation typically avoids assigning the same referee to the last two matches of the tournament (semi-final and final) to maintain balance and impartiality.

On the other hand, according to Foot Mercato, Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed emerges as one of the strongest candidates to officiate the final match, following exceptional displays throughout the tournament that have impressed both observers and experts alike, making him the leading choice to oversee the most important game in world football.