Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be remembered for Lionel Messi’s historic hat-trick, but I believe the Argentine captain was fortunate to remain on the pitch after a dangerous challenge on Algeria defender Aïssa Mandi.
Messi scored three goals to help Argentina begin their title defence in style and move level with Miroslav Klose as the World Cup’s joint all-time leading scorer. However, the biggest talking point of the match came in the 32nd minute.
Replays appeared to show Messi planting his studs onto Mandi’s calf and Achilles area. The Algerian defender was left in pain and needed medical attention before continuing.
Referee Szymon Marciniak did not show a card, while VAR decided not to intervene. In my view, that was the wrong decision.
According to the IFAB Laws of the Game, a player is guilty of serious foul play if he challenges an opponent in a way that endangers the safety of that opponent or uses excessive force. Serious foul play is punishable by a red card.
The laws also state that a tackle or challenge which endangers the safety of an opponent must be sanctioned as serious foul play. Studs-first contact above the ankle is often considered one of the key indicators when referees assess possible red-card offences.
While opinions may differ on whether Messi intended to hurt Mandi, intent is not the main issue. The most important question is whether the challenge endangered the opponent’s safety. Looking at the replays, I believe it did.
Former Premier League defender Nedum Onuoha shared a similar view, saying on ESPN that the incident was worthy of a red card and that VAR missed an opportunity to correct the referee’s decision.
The controversy has become even bigger because other players at the tournament have been sent off for dangerous tackles. Many fans believe the same standard should apply to every player, regardless of reputation or status.
Messi went on to complete his hat-trick and win the Player of the Match award, but for me, the challenge on Mandi remains a red-card offence under the Laws of the Game.
His brilliance with the ball should not stop people from discussing what happened without it.
