Fifa 'strongly refutes' claims referee Mark Geiger asked for Cristiano Ronaldo's shirt at half-time

Fifa have backed World Cup referee Mark Geiger over allegations the American asked Cristiano Ronaldo for his shirt at half-time of Portugal's win over Morocco.

Following the game, a result which ended Morrocco's chances of advancing from Group B with a game still to play, a member of the squad claimed Geiger asked the Portugal captain.

In a statement published via social media, FIFA expressed its "regret and disappointment" that such an allegation has been reported, and said Geiger "strongly refutes these claims and categorically states that such a request was not made".

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Backing Geiger, FIFA said it "unequivocally condemns the allegation supposedly made by a member of the Moroccan team" and praised the official for his "exemplary and professional" behaviour.

It signed off by reminding "teams of their duty to respect all principles of fair play".

Morocco now have only pride to play for when they meet Spain on Monday evening, with Portugal playing Iran.