Algeria lodge FIFA complaint over Lionel Messi incident at World Cup

Algeria have officially submitted a complaint to FIFA following their 3-0 defeat to Argentina at the FIFA World Cup 2026, reigniting debate over a controversial challenge involving Lionel Messi.

The complaint centres on an incident during the Group J clash in which Messi appeared to step on the calf of Algeria captain Aissa Mandi. Despite strong protests from Algerian players, referee Szymon Marciniak allowed play to continue, and VAR did not recommend a review.

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Messi remained on the pitch and later scored a hat-trick to help Argentina secure a comfortable victory.

Algeria is unhappy with refereeing decisions

Algerian football authorities believe the incident involving Messi warranted stronger action and have asked FIFA to review the referee's handling of the situation.

The complaint also raised concerns about another moment in the second half when Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister allegedly caught Ibrahim Maza with an elbow. Algerian officials argued that the challenge should have been examined more closely by match officials.

According to an NDTV Sports report, Algeria's submission questions the consistency of officiating and VAR interventions during the tournament, particularly in high-profile matches.

Debate over Messi challenge continues

The incident has generated widespread discussion among football fans, former referees and pundits. While some believe Messi was fortunate to avoid a red card, others argue the challenge did not meet the threshold for a dismissal.

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The debate has intensified on social media, where many supporters have questioned why VAR did not take a closer look at the incident. Critics have suggested that similar challenges involving other players might have resulted in stricter punishment.

FIFA has not yet issued an official response to Algeria's complaint. Any review of the incident is unlikely to alter the result of the match, but it could add to ongoing discussions about refereeing standards and the use of VAR at the World Cup.

Argentina remain on course in Group J following the victory. At the same time, Algeria will focus on their remaining matches as they attempt to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.

The controversy has ensured that the spotlight remains firmly on officiating decisions, with FIFA expected to face further questions over the consistency of VAR throughout the tournament.