Sport: Soccer Country: Germany Category: Scores & Results

Algeria files complaint over Messi's tackle during World Cup match

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 7:02 PM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Algeria files complaint over Messi's tackle during World Cup match

Summary

Algeria has submitted a complaint to FIFA concerning officiating in their World Cup match against Argentina, where a controversial tackle by Lionel Messi was not penalized. In the 30th minute of the match, Messi's studs-up challenge on Algerian defender Aissa Mandi raised questions about fair play, especially as Algeria lost 3-0. The Algerian football federation stated the tackle warranted a red card, alongside two other incidents of elbowing. Algeria hopes to address these concerns as they prepare for their next match against Jordan on Monday.

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By the Numbers

•Algeria lost to Argentina 3-0 in their World Cup opener.
•Messi's tackle on Mandi drew significant controversy.
•The federation highlighted three incidents deserving penalties.
•Algeria plays Jordan next on June 22.
•They aim to advance past the group stage for only the second time.

Latest Updates

7:02 PMYahoo Sports — Algeria file complaint over referee's decision on Messi tackle

What they're saying

"
Algeria have lodged a complaint with FIFA over "refereeing injustice" in their opening World Cup loss to Argentina, particularly a tackle by Lionel Messi, an Algerian football federation source told AFP on Friday."We are not saying that the Argentine team was not strong, but we cannot remain silent in the face of injustice," the source added when asked why Algeria decided to file a complaint.
— Yahoo Sports

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Yahoo SportsJun 19, 2026, 7:02 PM
Algeria file complaint over referee's decision on Messi tackle
Algeria have lodged a complaint with FIFA over "refereeing injustice" in their opening World Cup loss to Argentina, particularly a tackle by Lionel Messi, an Algerian football federation source told AFP on Friday."We are not saying that the Argentine team was not strong, but we cannot remain silent in the face of injustice," the source added when asked why Algeria decided to file a complaint.

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