Alan Shearer is worried that officials may prevent England from reaching the World Cup final.

England face old foes Argentina on Wednesday, targeting a spot in their first World Cup final since 1966.

It has not been a smooth ride up until this point, with England relying on mentality, grit and togetherness rather than fluidity to reach the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, World Champions Argentina have been on a similar journey, scrapping their way through to the last four.

Both sides have been scoring goals for fun, but have also struggled to keep them out.

But Shearer, who represented England at three major tournaments, believes the tie could hinge on Major League Soccer referee Ismail Elfath and his VAR backups. 

The Premier League’s all-time top goalscorer is alarmed by the inconsistent officiating at the tournament, fearing that holders Argentina will get the rub of the green against England. 

Alan Shearer fears England could fall foul to refereeing decisions against Argentina

Shearer reckons there has been a trend of generous decisions going towards Argentina, including chalking off an exquisite counter-attacking goal scored by Egypt’s Mostafa Zico in their round of 16 tie – pulled back after Lisandro Martinez was dispossessed.  

Talking to Betfair, Shearer said: ‘I’m slightly concerned that a refereeing decision or VAR could cost us against Argentina because I think the narrative from the referees and the VAR from the start of the tournament to now has changed massively.

‘I did that France game when Kylian Mbappe was fouled, and the ref went to the screen – was told to go to the screen – and stuck with his decision when I thought it was a clear penalty. 

‘And that has totally changed over the last 10 days, two weeks, the longer the tournament’s gone on.

‘I have been amazed at some of the decisions that Argentina have had, particularly the one against Egypt where their Egyptian goal was pulled back and cancelled out. 

‘I thought that was nonsense. It is a bit of a concern when playing them.’ 

Elfath, 44, is familiar with Argentina star Lionel Messi – having taken charge of the 2023 Leagues Cup final, which culminated in Messi winning his first trophy at Inter Miami.

He was also fourth official for the 2022 World Cup final, where Argentina beat France on penalties.