Messi Photo Claim Debunked: How a Cropped Image Misled Fans

The Viral Post and Its Claim

A post by @TheFootyFeed on X on July 14, 2026 alleged that referee Ismail Elfath was “asking for a photo” with Lionel Messi at the end of a World Cup game. The caption linked the image to the upcoming Argentina‑England semifinal, noting that Elfath had been chosen for that match on July 15, 2026. This claim spread quickly before the game was played.

The Real Origin of the Image

The picture actually dates to December 18, 2022, from the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 final between Argentina and France. The full‑size photo on Getty Images lists the referees and team captains from left to right: Tomasz Listkiewicz, Lionel Messi, Ismail Elfath, Szymon Marciniak, Hugo Lloris, and Paweł Sokolnicki. It was taken before the final at Lusail Stadium, not during any later match.

The version that circulated on X is a cropped cut of this original frame, removing the opposing captain’s side of the shot. Because of the crop, the background appears to show only Elfath and Messi, creating the false impression of a “request for a photo” during the 2026 semifinal. The four‑year date gap makes the claim impossible, confirming the post’s misinformation.

Why Pre‑Match Photos Appear Truncated

News agencies often provide cropped images to focus on key participants, and the Getty Images description notes the full composition. Similar pre‑match shots—such as the archived Getty photos of Argentina vs West Germany and Belgium’s captain standing with officials—illustrate this routine editorial practice. The second screenshot from Getty (below) shows the uncropped caption, reinforcing how the full context was omitted.

Understanding these editing choices helps viewers spot when an image has been repurposed. The cropped version lost the opposing captain and the tournament context, which are essential for accurate interpretation. By checking timestamps and original captions, readers can avoid sharing false narratives.

What This Means for Fans and Referees

The episode shows how quickly a routine photo can be weaponized when stripped of its background. Even though Elfath’s assignment to the Argentina‑England semifinal was legitimate, the misleading image could raise unwarranted suspicions about fairness. Fans should remain cautious and verify sources before accepting viral claims.

Lionel Messi and officials like Elfath are familiar faces, and the FIFA protocol includes scheduled photo sessions with captains before matches. These sessions are ceremonial and not indicative of any special treatment or bias. The incident serves as a reminder that misinformation can affect perceptions of referees and players alike. The final takeaway is that careful sourcing protects both the sport’s integrity and its followers.