Algeria lodge official complaint over controversial tackle involving Lionel Messi: 'Deserved a red card'

Algeria have officially lodged a complaint with FIFA over refereeing decisions during their 3-0 defeat to Argentina in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match, according to several media reports.

A source familiar with the matter told news agency AFP that the complaint has been submitted to FIFA’s refereeing commission, highlighting several incidents that Algeria believe were not handled correctly during the game in Kansas City.

"The complaint primarily concerns Messi's challenge, which deserved a red card, in everyone's opinion. There were also two elbow incidents... Both of which warranted dismissals," a federation source was quoted as saying by AFP.

Messi challenge at centre of controversy

One of the main incidents mentioned reportedly involves Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who was seen making contact with Algeria skipper Aissa Mandi in the first half. Algeria claim Messi appeared to step on Mandi’s calf from behind, but no disciplinary action was taken.

More from Football News

Algeria have also raised concerns about another incident involving Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister. In the second half, Mac Allister was accused of using an elbow in a challenge on Ibrahim Maza, but again no foul was given by Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, who officiated the 2022 World Cup final.

"We are not saying that the Argentine team was not strong, but we cannot remain silent in the face of injustice. There were three incidents that were crystal clear, and VAR did not intervene,” the source added.

Messi steals the show with hat-trick

Despite the controversy, Lionel Messi delivered a brilliant performance on the pitch, scoring his maiden World Cup hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 win. The hat-trick took him to 16 World Cup goals, equalling Germany legend Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time scoring chart.

The match also marked Messi’s 200th international appearance for Argentina, adding another milestone to his legendary career. He also became the oldest player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup.

Argentina will next face Austria in Dallas on Monday as they continue their World Cup campaign. Algeria will look to bounce back when they take on Jordan in San Francisco in their next group match.