Ethiopia files FIFA complaint against Egypt over fan misconduct in World Cup qualifier

The Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) has lodged a formal complaint with FIFA against Egypt, citing fan misconduct during their 2026 World Cup qualifier in Cairo on September 5, which ended in a 2-0 victory for the hosts.

Egypt secured the win through two first-half penalties, converted by Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush.

While Egypt celebrated a comfortable victory that kept their World Cup hopes alive, the EFF insists that the match was far from fair.

In a statement seen by The Eastleigh Voice, EFF CEO Bahiru Tilahun claimed that the targeted use of lasers on Ethiopia’s goalkeeper during the penalty kicks directly influenced the outcome.

"During the match, most notably during two critical penalty kicks, our players, especially our goalkeeper, were subjected to the use of laser pointers by spectators in the stadium. This behaviour significantly disrupted their concentration and performance, thereby compromising the fairness and integrity of the match," Tilahun said.

Laser devices in stadiums

The EFF highlighted that FIFA regulations explicitly prohibit the use of laser devices inside stadiums and hold national associations accountable for their supporters’ actions.

"The repeated and targeted use of such devices constitutes a clear violation of these regulations and poses a serious risk to player safety," the CEO added.

Tilahun also expressed concern over what the EFF described as blatant disrespect during the playing of Ethiopia’s national anthem, when large sections of the home crowd whistled and jeered.

"During the playing of the Ethiopian national anthem, fans of the host nation disrupted the moment with whistles, jeers, and other forms of audible disrespect," he said.

FIFA values

"This violates the FIFA Disciplinary Code (2023 Edition), Article 16 (2) (e), which considers such spectator behaviour as misconduct. Such behaviour contradicts FIFA's values of respect, fair play, and mutual dignity among national teams."

The EFF has called for a formal investigation into the events in Cairo and demanded that the Egyptian Football Association be held responsible for its supporters’ actions.

It also urged FIFA to implement corrective measures and sanctions where appropriate, and to intensify efforts to educate host federations and their fans on acceptable conduct at international matches.

"We trust FIFA will treat this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves and uphold its commitment to ensuring safe, respectful, and fair competition for all member associations," Tilahun said.

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