India, July 13 -- Egypt's remarkable FIFA World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak against Argentina in the Round of 16, but the fallout from that dramatic encounter refuses to die down. Days after accusing FIFA of favouring Lionel Messi and the defending champions, Egypt have now levelled fresh allegations against the Argentina captain himself.

Speaking to Egyptian outlet Kora Plus, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan claimed Messi deliberately tried to inflame tensions by approaching the Egyptian technical area during the heated knockout clash.

Hassan was asked about the footage that showed him making an "X" gesture after Messi walked towards Egypt's bench during the match. The incident had sparked widespread debate at the time.

"He's very ...