The Egyptian Football Association has suspended the referee and assistant officials from the Tanta SC versus Telecom Egypt SC match after a mobile phone was used to overturn a penalty decision during the game. The penalty, initially awarded to Tanta SC, was rescinded following an unauthorised review process conducted using a phone on the touchline. This action violated official protocols, as Egypt's league does not permit such technology outside the formal Video Assistant Referee system. The incident sparked immediate controversy, prompting the EFA to launch a full investigation into who initiated the phone review and how it influenced the match outcome. Officials have been suspended pending the results of the inquiry, with the association affirming that all decisions must adhere strictly to established rules. Further disciplinary measures may follow depending on the investigation's findings.
A penalty given then erased without VAR but with a mobile phone exposes a dangerous loophole in match integrity. The suspension of the officials confirms a breach of protocol, undermining trust in on-field decisions. No Nigerian or African player was involved in this incident.
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