Algeria files FIFA complaint over Messi incident: What could happen to World Cup result
Lionel Messi was not only remembered for his hat-trick (photo: x.com/AFASeleccionEN)
The opening Group J match at the 2026 World Cup between Argentina and Algeria ended in a major controversy. Despite a convincing win and a hat-trick from Lionel Messi, the main talking point became the alleged leniency of the referees toward the Argentine superstar. The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has submitted an official complaint to football's governing body, according to The Athletic.
Controversial incidents "missed" by VAR
The Algerian side raised concerns over two specific moments, which they believe completely changed the course of the match and left them without a fair chance to compete.
The biggest controversy came in the 32nd minute, when Messi made a strong tackle, catching Algeria captain Aissa Mandi with his studs on the shin and Achilles tendon. Despite the ball being out of play, Polish referee Szymon Marciniak did not even show a yellow card, and the VAR team reportedly refused to review the incident.
The second incident occurred in the 74th minute, when Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister struck Ibrahim Maza in the face with an elbow during an aerial challenge. The Algerian player went down, but the referee again did not blow the whistle.
"It's pointless commenting on hypothetical situations, but everyone saw it, including me," Algeria head coach Vladimir Petković said emotionally after the match.
Ridículo estrepitoso del VAR en el Argentina - Argelia.
Messi clava los tacos por detrás en el gemelo de Mandi, doblándoselo con uso de fuerza excesiva.
