With anticipation building ahead of the World Cup semi-final, South American media outlets have offered a revealing insight into the referee appointed to oversee the clash.
Both England and Argentina reached the semi-finals via intense extra-time victories, setting up a historic clash.
However, controversy overshadows the tournament; critics claim referees are favoring Argentina following a bizarre VAR red card for Switzerland and an incident against Egypt , while FIFA's geopolitical ban on English officials has further intensified the pre-match drama.
That's not all, as FIFA has confirmed American referee Ismail Elfath will officiate the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina in Atlanta. Assisted by Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins, the experienced MLS official has been the subject of plenty of talk heading into Wednesday's game.
To add to all the drama around the World Cup and its referees, La Nacion have shared what they've been told about Ismail Elfath and his refereeing history.
A referee who knows him well and follows his work closely said this:
" Ismail Elfath is the best referee in MLS. He has a lot of experience, with good driving and correct detection of faults. And he is supported by two assistants also of experience, constituting one of the strongest trios in Concacaf. I think he is at the end of his career, which is why I would dare to tell you that this World Cup semifinal is a great challenge for him, because of the moment in which it comes to him and because he also represents one of the organizing countries. I think they will be very motivated to run this game. He speaks perfect English, so he will have no problems in dialogue with the English and he also understands Spanish: in addition, he knows Messi, De Paul and Thiago Almada."
Lionel Messi shares a unique history with Ismail Elfath. The American referee served as the fourth official during Messi's crowning moment in the 2022 World Cup Final. Having also crossed paths in Major League Soccer, Messi holds an undefeated 3-0 record in MLS matches where Elfath has been the head official.
However, the talk hasn't just been about Elfath, as Michael Oliver was denied the chance to referee the contest and the final due to it featuring both Argentina and England.
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